Bulwark Takes

Ben Parker and Michael Weiss dissect Steve Witkoff’s praise of Vladimir Putin as a “humanitarian” and JD Vance’s defense of the Trump envoy, exposing the weakness and incompetence behind the administration’s Russia diplomacy. They examine how Trump’s desperation for a deal with Putin is leading to concessions on sanctions, undermining Ukraine, and rewarding Russian aggression.  Plus, Michael explains how Russia’s growing cooperation with Iran threatens U.S. interests and why Trump’s approach is putting America’s global standing at risk. This episode is sponsored by the New York Times.

How do democracies fall apart, and why do the people who could stop it so often look the other way? CNN’s Dana Bash joins Sarah Longwell to examine the elections that changed history, including the fatal miscalculation that helped bring Hitler to power and its disturbing echoes in Trump’s Republican Party. They also explore how a handful of votes might have prevented Trump’s rise, why Democrats need to learn how to win, and which 2026 races could change American politics for generations. This episode is sponsored by the New York Times. Get Dana Bash’s new book, The Elections That Changed the World: Fifteen Pivotal Moments That Shaped How We Live, co-written with David Fisher: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-elections-that-changed-the-world-fifteen-pivotal-moments-that-shaped-how-we-live-dana-bash/bcc71c1baa846304

Jonathan Cohn sits down with Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed to discuss his admiration for Barack Obama, the shortcomings of the Obama presidency, and the lessons he hopes to carry into the Senate. El-Sayed explains why he believes Obama made it possible for people like him to run for office, where he thinks Obama fell short on health care and other issues, and why Democrats need to stop assuming Republicans will negotiate in good faith. Plus, El-Sayed discusses standing up to Trump, why he believes Americans are less divided than they think, and his philosophy of fighting bullies without becoming one himself. This video is sponsored by The New York Times.

Ready to be seen? Check that appointment off your to-do list with Zocdoc ✅: https://zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes #sponsored Donald Trump claims Russia has been “fine” in Ukraine, and Michael Weiss, who has witnessed Russian atrocities firsthand, is furious. Weiss and former CIA officer Marc Polymeropoulos examine Trump’s increasingly alarming alignment with Putin, reports that Elon Musk interfered with Ukraine’s satellite defenses, Pete Hegseth’s refusal to release desperately needed Patriot missiles, and whether Trump now fits the intelligence definition of a Russian agent of influence.

Ready to be seen? Check that appointment off your to-do list with Zocdoc ✅: https://zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes #sponsored Sam Stein and Will Sommer break down the disgusting attack ad targeting Ohio Democratic gubernatorial nominee Amy Acton, featuring her estranged mother accusing her of lying. When Acton was 12, her stepfather was accused of sexually abusing her and was indicted by a grand jury before he fled with Amy's mother. Acton’s mother also lost custody of both of her children. The ad appears to be connected to Vivek Ramaswamy’s campaign, which has refused to disavow it. Sam and Will explain how the campaign’s smear tactics have backfired, how right-wing influencers rushed to amplify the attack, and why this could be a major political blunder for Vivek. Plus, a look at Vivek’s history of dirty campaigning and why this latest stunt could be a new low for Ohio politics.

Ready to be seen? Check that appointment off your to-do list with Zocdoc ✅: https://zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes #sponsored  Will Saletan gives his take on the growing panic inside House Republican leadership as bad polls, shrinking campaign budgets, and vulnerable races threaten the GOP’s hold on Congress. Even friendly voices on Fox News are pressing Mike Johnson, Tom Emmer, and Steve Scalise on why Republicans are struggling ahead of the midterms. From Texas districts where Republican gerrymandering may be backfiring to rising frustration over fuel prices and the Iran war, GOP leaders are running out of explanations.

Ready to be seen? Check that appointment off your to-do list with Zocdoc ✅: https://zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes #sponsored  Andrew Egger and Bill Kristol give their takes on Trump’s increasingly desperate push to save Republicans two weeks before the midterms. As Trump’s approval rating sinks and Democrats build a major polling advantage, the president is struggling to make the case for his party, resorting to racist attacks, religious bigotry, and bizarre defenses of vulnerable Republicans.  Plus, Trump continues to side with Vladimir Putin as Russia escalates its attacks on Ukraine and Marco Rubio is left defending the White House’s actions on Ukraine as Trump’s pro-Putin rhetoric grows harder to ignore.

Donald Trump can’t seem to stop talking about other men’s bodies, from Republican candidates’ jawlines to their backsides, even as his presidency faces mounting crises. Sam Stein joins Nicolle Wallace on MS NOW to discuss Trump’s bizarre fixation and misplaced priorities, plus why James Talarico’s unconventional campaign against Ken Paxton could rewrite the political playbook in Texas. Ready to be seen? Check that appointment off your to-do list with Zocdoc ✅: https://zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes #sponsored Watch Deadline: White House on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house

Sen. Andy Kim joins The Bulwark’s Jonathan Cohn to discuss the terrifying family health crisis that inspired his political career, Republicans’ attacks on healthcare, and his ambitious new proposal to guarantee health insurance for every American from birth through age 26. Could this be the first step toward universal healthcare? Read Jonathan Cohn's newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/before-medicare-for-all-this-senator-andy-kim-wants-medicaid-for-kids-medikids Upgrade your sleep with Boll & Branch’s incredibly soft, breathable organic cotton sheets and bedding. Get 15% off your first order plus free shipping at https://www.bollandbranch.com/bulwarktakes with code bulwarktakes. Exclusions apply.

Sam Stein and Will Sommer break down the foreign money scandal involving Alina Habba’s new husband, Ric Grenell, and the Kennedy Center. They also examine the protests roiling Albania over Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump’s controversial resort project, and Bari Weiss’s pursuit of right-wing internet conspiracy theories at CBS News. Plus, the strange cast of characters gathering for a $3,000-a-ticket citizen journalist event at Mar-a-Lago, Laura Loomer’s White House ambitions, and Nick Fuentes’s online dating drama. Upgrade your sleep with Boll & Branch’s incredibly soft, breathable organic cotton sheets and bedding. Get 15% off your first order plus free shipping at https://www.bollandbranch.com/bulwarktakes with code bulwarktakes. Exclusions apply.

For years, American spies and diplomats have suffered mysterious, debilitating injuries. Was Russia secretly targeting them, and did the CIA cover it up? Former CIA officer Mark Polymeropoulos, whose career was ended by Havana Syndrome, and Michael Weiss welcome 60 Minutes investigative journalist Michael Rey to examine explosive new evidence, a suspected Russian microwave weapon, and the government’s treatment of its own officers. Read The Havana Syndrome: Secret Weapons, a Government Cover-Up, and the Greatest Spy Mystery of Our Time by Michael Rey and Oriana Zill de Granados: Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-havana-syndrome-invisible-weapons-a-government-cover-up-and-the-greatest-spy-mystery-of-our-time-michael-rey/a5804620d654238c?ean=9798217088386 Amazon: https://a.co/d/09a7JiWo

Trump is lifting sanctions on Russian energy, his own energy secretary is contradicting his explanation, and Republicans are scrambling to defend the indefensible. Sam Stein and Will Saletan take on Trump’s latest gift to Putin, Elon Musk’s troubling role in Ukraine’s Starlink crisis, and the disastrous legacy of Lindsey Graham, who helped bring Trump back to power believing he could control him.

Tim Miller talks with journalist Caolan Robertson, reporting from Ukraine’s front lines, about disruptions to the satellite communications Ukrainian soldiers depend on, Marco Rubio’s baffling explanation, and the deadly consequences of losing that lifeline. They also discuss Russia’s escalating attacks on civilians, Ukraine bringing the fight to Russian territory, and how Trump’s relationship with Putin is being viewed by Ukrainians. Follow Caolan’s independent reporting from Ukraine: https://caolan.report/

James Carville joins Bill Kristol to explain why he's cautiously optimistic about a massive Democratic wave, with Republicans facing unexpected threats in Florida, Texas, and even the Deep South. They discuss Trump’s disastrous polling, the GOP’s crumbling coalition, the possibility of election interference, and what a crushing Republican defeat could mean for Trump’s billionaire allies and the future of American politics.

Recorded live in Columbia, South Carolina, on October 16, 2026, Tim Miller, Sam Stein, and Will Sommer take a hilarious tour through the latest MAGA madness: Kimberly Guilfoyle’s increasingly messy scandals, Tucker Carlson’s inexplicable horse commentary, James O’Keefe’s $3,000 journalism awards, the mystery of $60,000 in missing beef, and the growing civil war among young Republicans.

Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker welcome Eliot Cohen to discuss what makes great leaders, the dysfunction inside Trump’s Pentagon, and the difficult choices facing military officers. Drawing on lessons from Churchill, Afghanistan, and Iraq, they explore why wars go wrong, how to recognize victory, and what history teaches us about military strategy. Preorder The Strategist on Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-strategist-how-to-think-about-war-and-politics-eliot-a-cohen/207ebf9c4bf5d10f Preorder The Strategist on Amazon: https://a.co/d/06DERJxH Watch Shield of the Republic: https://www.shieldoftherepublic.com/

Tim Miller ventures outside the Bulwark bubble for a candid conversation with Mario Nawfal, a Trump-friendly influencer who’s having serious buyer’s remorse. They discuss Trump’s disastrous Iran war, the voters abandoning his coalition, his increasingly dangerous obsession with his legacy, and his willingness to throw Ukraine under the bus to appease Putin. Find your next fall favorites at https://www.quince.com/. Get free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada and the UK, too. When Quince asks where you heard about them, let them know it was Bulwark Takes. Check out Mario's channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/marionawfal

Five days. That’s how long Katie Zachariah lasted as Trump’s White House press secretary before a disastrous debut, questions about her legal credentials, and a wave of West Wing backstabbing brought her tenure to an abrupt end. Former Trump White House deputy press secretary Sarah Matthews joins Andrew Egger and Judd Legum, whose reporting helped expose Zachariah’s questionable résumé, to explain how it all fell apart, why Trump bears the blame, and what this fiasco reveals about the chaos returning to his White House in the second term. Find your next fall favorites at https://www.quince.com/. Get free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada and the UK, too. When Quince asks where you heard about them, let them know it was Bulwark Takes.

Sam Stein, Tim Miller, and Will Sommer give an update on the MAGA influencers caught pushing a false story about Texas Democrat James Talarico, and why those behind the smear may face few consequences. They also examine court documents revealing how Kristi Noem and Corey Lewandowski allegedly fed false information to Laura Loomer to smear a government employee, raising questions about how political disinformation spreads without traditional media scrutiny. Plus, the trio breaks down Ben Shapiro’s growing conservative movie business, including why Hollywood stars like Rob Lowe are signing on to his films. And an update on Anthony Constantino, a Trump-obsessed Republican whose rap songs and devotion to the president have drawn attention to his campaign for Congress. Right now, save up to 20% on mattresses when you go to https://Casper.com. #ad

Right now, save up to 20% on mattresses when you go to https://Casper.com. #ad Tim Miller gives his take on Elon Musk’s return as the biggest campaign donor of the 2026 midterms, funneling $276 million into Republican groups, including $158 million to help Republicans hold the Senate. After threatening to launch his own political party and breaking with Donald Trump, Musk is back in the GOP’s corner. Tim looks at how Musk’s spending, Trump’s return to X, the administration’s dealings with Russia, and Ukraine’s loss of critical Starlink access point to a renewed alignment between Trump, Musk, and Vladimir Putin. He also looks at how powerful tech executives, including Sam Altman, Mark Zuckerberg, Satya Nadella, and Marc Benioff, are sucking up to with Trump as the tech industry’s influence over politics and public discourse grows.

Right now, save up to 20% on mattresses when you go to https://Casper.com. #ad Is Donald Trump about to fire the woman who has kept his White House from descending into chaos? Bill Kristol and Andrew Egger cover reports that Trump is considering replacements for Susie Wiles, his retreat from Pete Hegseth’s planned livestreamed execution, and his increasingly alarming efforts to appease Vladimir Putin at Ukraine’s expense.

Marc Polymeropoulos and Michael Weiss give their takes on the growing questions surrounding Elon Musk’s Starlink and his company purposely disrupted Ukraine’s war effort. They examine reports of missed Russian missile warnings, the status of U.S. intelligence sharing with Ukraine, and why any deliberate disruption could put American personnel at risk. They also discuss the need for congressional oversight and what the controversy reveals about the Trump administration’s increasingly cozy relationship with Vladimir Putin. Plus, they dig into the growing scandal surrounding U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle, her ousting, and the allegations of corruption and influence-peddling raising questions about the administration’s vetting process.

Ben Parker and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) break down the latest developments in Ukraine, including Russia’s escalating attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure, the growing rift between Washington and Kyiv, and how Ukraine is imposing mounting costs on Russian forces. They also examine how the Trump administration’s approach is undermining a critical U.S. ally and what the battlefield’s evolution means for the future of modern warfare. Then, former military lawyer and federal prosecutor Margaret Donovan joins Command Post to discuss Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s plan to potentially livestream the execution of Fort Hood shooter Nidal Hasan, including the legal questions, national security risks, and concerns about turning a convicted terrorist into a martyr. They also examine the case of Air Force Major Jason Watson, who faces military charges for political speech in uniform and has reportedly spent months in solitary confinement awaiting trial. Get $80 off your first month with promo code SPACE80 at Talkspace.com

Sam Stein again welcomes Eric Deters, the man whose text messages helped expose Kimberly Guilfoyle’s alleged $100,000 ask and preceded her resignation as U.S. ambassador to Greece. Deters discusses why he believes Guilfoyle was forced out, his plans to sue her for defamation, and why he says her resignation won’t end the congressional and State Department investigations. He also shares his take on the culture of money and influence inside Trump World, and why he believes the fallout from the Guilfoyle scandal is far from over.

Andrew Egger and Bill Kristol give their takes on the news White House Press Secretary Katie Zacharia made when she announced on her first day that the White House asked Kimberly Guilfoyle to resign as U.S. ambassador to Greece. Beyond that, Zacharia’s first briefing was remarkably short, with questions from just a few outlets, all of them conservative, yet she still struggled to deliver clear answers and repeatedly returned to praising Trump. Plus, they examine Trump’s latest rally in Ohio, his attacks on Haitian and Somali communities, the federal raid on Rep. Ilhan Omar’s home, and the growing weaponization of federal law enforcement just weeks before the midterm elections.

Sen. Brian Schatz joins Sam Stein to explain why Democrats suddenly have a shot at winning Senate races in deep-red states, how they plan to hold Trump’s corrupt officials accountable, and why he doubts JD Vance has what it takes to succeed Trump. From the possibility of impeaching Trump administration officials to Vance’s struggle to connect with MAGA voters, Schatz offers an unusually candid look at what comes next.

Sam Stein and Andrew Egger break down Donald Trump’s bizarre and disturbing Ohio rally, from his repeated comments about Senator Jon Husted’s physique to mocking a woman who was assaulted by a fellow rallygoer for wearing a shirt demanding the release of the Epstein files. Trump revived his racist lies about Haitian immigrants in Springfield and embraced embattled Republican Rep. Max Miller despite allegations of abuse. Plus, Trump claims Russia and Ukraine have agreed to an energy ceasefire that neither side says exists. Sam and Andrew discuss Trump’s increasingly grievance-driven rallies, his lack of a positive vision for voters, and the disturbing implications of a president who seems willing to declare reality into existence. Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://hims.com/bulwarktakes to get personalized, affordable care for weight loss, hair loss, sex, testosterone, and more.

MAGA thought it had a career-ending scandal on James Talarico. Instead, it got a spectacular humiliation. Sam Stein and Will Sommer break down how the conspiracy unraveled, including the full phone call obtained by The Bulwark that exposed the holes in the story. Plus, the federal raid on Ilhan Omar’s home, Pete Hegseth’s public execution plans, and the latest MAGA infighting. Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://hims.com/bulwarktakes to get personalized, affordable care for weight loss, hair loss, sex, testosterone, and more.

Michael Weiss and Marc Polymeropoulos give their takes on Trump’s latest deal with Vladimir Putin and why Trump suddenly announced an energy ceasefire. Sources tell Michael that Ukraine was blindsided by this weekend’s series of announcements from Trump as his approach only benefits Moscow even more. They also examine the threat to intelligence sharing, the future of U.S. weapons sales to Ukraine, and why Europe is increasingly preparing to defend itself without Washington. Plus, the latest revelations surrounding U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle, mounting pressure for her removal, and the corruption concerns threatening U.S.-Greek relations. Finally, there's new investigative reporting on Havana syndrome and a major new book challenging the U.S. government’s long-standing position on the mysterious condition. Buy 'The Havana Syndrome: Secret Weapons, a Government Cover-Up, and the Greatest Spy Mystery of Our Time' - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GM5K93ZR

Trump’s midterm problem may be far worse than it was in 2018, and the warning signs are showing up in places Republicans never expected. Bill Kristol and veteran political analyst Ron Brownstein examine Trump’s collapsing support among core MAGA voters, the surprising Senate races emerging in deep-red states, and how a Democratic wave could reshape the Supreme Court for decades.

This episode is a little taste of Receipts, Catherine Rampell’s brand-new show from The Bulwark, where she follows the money, cuts through the economic spin, and exposes who’s really paying the price for Trump’s policies. Subscribe to Receipts wherever you listen to podcasts: Apple Podcasts:  ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/receipts-with-catherine-rampell/id6807470569 Spotify:  ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1O2Z2akwyonpAsbxyMqBTV Scott Bessent thinks he’s the smartest guy in the room, but his disastrous financial record and increasingly strange public statements tell another story. Catherine Rampell and Sam Stein dissect the Treasury secretary’s jaw-dropping Axios interview, then Catherine talks with an American cheesemaker whose business has been hammered by Trump’s trade wars, supposedly designed to protect farmers like him.

Sam Stein and Catherine Rampell give their takes on Trump’s decision to buy oil from Putin, just weeks after Trump signed Lindsey Graham’s Russia sanctions bill into law. Instead of increasing pressure on Russia, Trump is opening the door to Russian fuel exports that could help bankroll Putin’s war on Ukraine. Plus, they examine the bill’s loopholes, whether the deal will actually lower fuel prices, and why Trump is pressuring Ukraine to stop attacking Russian oil refineries. As Zelensky pushes back, Trump’s deal risks a major rupture in U.S.-Ukraine relations.

Tim Miller takes a closer look at Ohio Senate candidate Jon Husted, whose carefully crafted moderate persona masks a record of corruption allegations, MAGA loyalty, and political opportunism. From his ties to Ohio’s utility scandal and donations from Jeffrey Epstein associate Les Wexner to his opposition to releasing the Epstein files, Husted has plenty of explaining to do. Tim also examines Husted’s role in bringing data centers to Ohio, his support for the Iran war and Trump’s tariffs, his dismissive comments about people living in poverty, and his decision to hire a political director with a history of Nazi imagery and white nationalist associations. As Husted tries to appeal to both MAGA Republicans and swing voters, Tim makes the case for why Ohioans should reject his candidacy and send Sherrod Brown back to the Senate.

Sam Stein and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) give their takes on Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s plan to livestream the execution of the Fort Hood shooter, Nidal Hasan, and why turning an execution into a public spectacle raises serious moral questions. Hertling explains the potential toll on soldiers ordered to carry out the firing squad and warns that the spectacle could inflame tensions rather than deter future attacks. After we recorded, Vice President JD Vance addressed Hegseth’s plan, saying he wasn’t sure the livestream would actually happen and adding, “If it’s ultimately livestreamed, I’m not gonna be watching it.” They also break down the latest developments in the Iran war, including Trump’s pledge not to launch new attacks before the midterm elections, the growing risks of further escalation across the region, and newly released footage showing Iranian drone strikes on U.S. military installations in the Middle East. The Pentagon’s $43.6 billion estimate for the cost of the war may dramatically understate the damage as we look at the destroyed military equipment and facilities and the munition supply spent. Fall tour tickets: https://lnk.thebulwark.com/TheGoodFightTour

Tim Miller, Sam Stein, and Democratic strategist Lis Smith join a live audience at Dartmouth for a spirited debate about Trump’s collapsing political fortunes, the GOP’s future under JD Vance, the Democrats’ struggle to rebuild their coalition, and the wide-open 2028 presidential race. Plus, a sobering question: What happens if Trump loses Congress and decides to go rogue?

Tim Miller gives his take on JD Vance’s fumbling attempt to define socialism and the hypocrisy at the heart of MAGA’s attacks on Democrats. Asked why socialist candidates are gaining ground across the country, Vance pivots to immigration and transgender athletes instead of explaining what socialism actually means.But while Republicans warn that Democrats are bringing socialism to America, the Trump administration is expanding government control over the economy, intervening in private enterprise, and using the power of the state to target political enemies.  Tim explains why the administration’s own policies undermine its anti-socialist rhetoric, how Vance’s answer exposes the weakness of MAGA’s midterm message, and why the word games are more than just a political joke. This episode is sponsored by The New York Times.

Sam Stein speaks with Eric Deters, the man at the center of the Wall Street Journal’s explosive report on Kimberly Guilfoyle. Deters describes his relationship with Guilfoyle, the hundreds of thousands of dollars he spent in Trump world, and his claims that she promised access and favors in exchange for money. Deters explains why he came forward and why he says Guilfoyle asked him for another $100,000 to pay off her credit card. He also details her attempts to connect him with Tucker Carlson and Billy Long, her warnings to stop putting things in writing, and why he now says, “I feel like a dumbass.” Lawsuits against Dr. Abubakar Atiq Durrani alleged that more than 500 patients received unnecessary surgeries. However, there are no precise numbers as to how many patients in total received those surgeries, how many children received those surgeries or how many of them died because of those procedures. In addition, Jared Kushner received a $2 billion investment for his private equity firm from Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund, not a $3 billion investment. This episode is sponsored by The New York Times.

Ready to be seen? Check that appointment off your to-do list with Zocdoc ✅ : https://zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes #sponsored Sam Stein, Marc Polymeropoulos, and Michael Weiss are going live to take on the bombshell Wall Street Journal report that reveals Kimberly Guilfoyle’s extraordinary private messages with a Trump donor, including a $100,000 request to pay her Amex bill and repeated warnings to stop creating a paper trail. Read the Wall Street Journal's reporting: https://www.wsj.com/politics/policy/guilfoyle-amex-donor-100-000-0e02cdc3?st=8Rg5Hy&reflink=article_copyURL_share

Ready to be seen? Check that appointment off your to-do list with Zocdoc ✅: https://zocdoc.com/ bulwarktakes #sponsored Will Saletan breaks down the Maine Senate debate between Republican incumbent Susan Collins and Democratic challenger Troy Jackson, and why Collins is struggling to separate herself from Donald Trump in a state where the president remains deeply unpopular. Jackson repeatedly tied Collins to Trump on the Iran war, tariffs, abortion, health care and the Republican tax and spending bill, while Collins tried to emphasize her independence and point to the work she has done for Maine. But with Collins having cast several crucial votes for Trump’s agenda, Will explains why her strategy of distancing herself from the president may be difficult to sell to voters.

Ready to be seen? Check that appointment off your to-do list with Zocdoc ✅: https://zocdoc.com/ bulwarktakes #sponsored Lauren Egan travels to Kansas to report on one of the most surprising Senate races of the 2026 midterms, where Democrat Adam Hamilton is running neck-and-neck with Republican incumbent Roger Marshall. A new New York Times poll shows the race in a dead heat, and Republicans are now pouring millions of dollars into Kansas as they scramble to defend a seat they once considered safe. Hamilton, a former pastor, makes the case that rising costs, health care concerns, tariffs and the war in Iran are pushing some Kansas voters away from Republicans. He also argues that Democrats can win back voters in the heartland by moving toward the center and focusing on affordability, dignity and bipartisan problem-solving. Lauren talks with Hamilton supporters about why they think Kansas could finally be ready to elect a Democrat to the Senate for the first time in nearly a century, and asks Hamilton how he plans to win over Republicans and voters who remain skeptical of the Democratic Party.

Ready to be seen? Check that appointment off your to-do list with Zocdoc ✅ : https://zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes #sponsored Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker discuss the U.S. decision to pull B-1 bombers out of the United Kingdom over concerns about Iranian drone attacks, and what the move reveals about the changing nature of modern warfare. They examine the growing vulnerability of U.S. military bases, the risks to American forces at home and abroad, and what the threat means for NATO and America’s alliances. Plus, Hertling breaks down Pete Hegseth’s six new Pentagon initiatives, including Project Meridian, a new effort to study the future of warfare led by Elon Musk, Palmer Luckey, and Newt Gingrich. They also examine Hegseth’s proposed autonomous warfare command and a new Office of Religious Affairs.

Reporter Michael Weiss and former CIA officer Marc Polymeropoulos break down a staggering spy scandal involving the former head of German intelligence, an alleged Iranian plot targeting U.S. bombers in Britain, and the increasingly strange questions surrounding Kimberly Guilfoyle in Greece. Plus: why Russian intelligence operatives are suspected of leaving a particularly vile calling card in politicians’ homes. Find your next fall favorites at https://Quince.com. Get free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada and the UK, too. When Quince asks where you heard about them, let them know it was Bulwark Takes.

Ben Parker and Bill Kristol discuss Donald Trump’s increasingly frantic attacks as Republicans face a surprisingly competitive Senate race in South Carolina, including Trump’s use of an anti-trans slur against Democratic candidate Annie Andrews. They examine what the race says about the Republican Party’s standing heading into the midterms and whether Democrats could make gains in traditionally red states. Plus, Ben and Bill dig into the corruption allegations surrounding Trump’s foreign policy, including his family’s business interests and deals involving Russia, Venezuela and the Middle East. They also discuss the withdrawal of U.S. B-1 bombers from Britain, the broader retreat of American power in Europe, and concerns over a mysterious illness linked to a plague research facility in Russia. Find your next fall favorites at https://Quince.com. Get free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada and the UK, too. When Quince asks where you heard about them, let them know it was Bulwark Takes.

Tim Miller gives his take on the Democrats who are already arguing against investigating Donald Trump’s corporate allies, warning that accountability cannot be sacrificed in the name of avoiding political “retribution.” He argues that companies and executives who participated in or benefited from Trump’s corruption should face scrutiny, and that Democratic oversight in 2027 will be critical to uncovering what actually happened. If Democrats want to restore the rule of law, he argues, they need to make clear that corruption has consequences, including for the powerful people and companies that helped enable Trump. Find your next fall favorites at https://Quince.com. Get free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada and the UK, too. When Quince asks where you heard about them, let them know it was Bulwark Takes.

Catherine Rampell and Jonathan Cohn give their takes on Donald Trump’s latest checks to Americans, including $500 payments to some ACA marketplace enrollees and $90 payments to certain Medicare recipients. They explain where the money is coming from, why the ACA payments may lack clear legal authority, and how diverting money from healthcare outreach could further undermine the Affordable Care Act. Plus, Catherine and Jonathan discuss reports of a possible plague outbreak in Russia, what is known about the death of a laboratory worker, and why the Trump administration’s retreat from global health programs and international cooperation could leave the U.S. less prepared for the next major outbreak. Get $80 off your first month with Talkspace when you go to https://www.talkspace.com and enter promo code SPACE80. Match with a licensed therapist today at https://www.talkspace.com and use promo code SPACE80.

Sam Stein and Will Sommer give their takes on Kash Patel’s engagement, Benny Johnson facing a lawsuit from two anti-ICE protesters, and The Daily Wire’s new pro-ICE movie being filmed in Livingston, Montana. The film reportedly recreates the shooting of Renee Good before turning it into a fictionalized action story involving ICE agents, Antifa, MS-13 and a heroic Korean grocer. And you’ll never believe who just joined the film as a producer—especially given the production’s security problems. Plus, Ken Paxton’s Senate campaign is facing another leaked recording, with the Texas Republican sounding increasingly frustrated by the national party’s control over his campaign. Get $80 off your first month with Talkspace when you go to https://www.talkspace.com and enter promo code SPACE80. Match with a licensed therapist today at https://www.talkspace.com and use promo code SPACE80.

Tim Miller takes on Vivek Ramaswamy’s attempt to show off his strength at a campaign event, then turns to Jon Ossoff’s message to young voters about why they can’t afford to give in to despair and the case for turning frustration and rage into political action. Plus: Tim’s thoughts about James Baldwin and the long history of people overcoming seemingly impossible odds. Get $80 off your first month with Talkspace when you go to https://www.talkspace.com and enter promo code SPACE80. Match with a licensed therapist today at https://www.talkspace.com and use promo code SPACE80.

Will Saletan lays out the case against Donald Trump that Jack Smith never got to present at trial. Drawing from Smith’s testimony before Congress, Will looks at the evidence that Trump was repeatedly told the truth about the 2020 election by his own advisers, Republican officials, and Justice Department officials and chose to ignore it. From Georgia and Pennsylvania to the January 6 attack on the Capitol, Will walks through what prosecutors would have shown a jury about Trump’s election lies, his efforts to pressure officials, and his refusal to stop the violence after it began.

Bill Kristol is joined by Andrew Egger, reporting fresh from Ohio after an extraordinary day on the ground: the funeral of 20-year-old Haitian immigrant Pierre Damas Bel in Springfield, followed by Donald Trump’s rally nearby.

A bombshell New York Times/Siena poll shows Democrats running surprisingly strong across traditionally red states, including Texas, Alaska, Ohio, Iowa, and Kansas. Catherine Rampell and Bill Kristol explain what the numbers actually tell us, why Trump’s erosion with his own voters matters, and whether this is what a real electoral wave looks like.

Donald Trump posted Tom Cotton’s private phone number because the Arkansas senator is blocking his push for permanent daylight saving time. Will Saletan and Joe Perticone take on the strange fight, the golf-industry interests behind it, and why Trump is picking on one of his own loyal allies with Republicans already staring down a brutal midterm environment.

Ben Parker puts Bulwark publisher Sarah Longwell through an AMA on how a Democratic House should investigate the Trump administration, what focus groups reveal about James Talarico’s path in Texas, and how a future Democratic president should balance accountability with reform. Longwell also discusses universal health care, the post-Trump GOP field, why The Bulwark hired a former Trump aide, and criticism of her advice to Democrats in 2024. Buy Sarah's book! https://bookshop.org/p/books/how-to-eat-an-elephant-one-voter-at-a-time-sarah-longwell/6a0996cb43d2ef5b ...or on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GR8JRW71?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback

Sam Stein and Will Sommer break down the leaked script for the Daily Wire’s upcoming fictional movie Pawn Shop, a pro-ICE thriller set amid an imagined Antifa siege of a Minneapolis pawn shop. They discuss the film’s fictionalized version of the Renee Good shooting, its portrayal of ICE agents, Antifa and MS-13, the “rooftop Korean” storyline, and the movie’s many conservative-media tropes. Will also explains how the production has caused protests in Livingston, Montana, where the movie is being filmed. Read more from Will: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/daily-wire-quietly-shooting-pro-ice-movie-pawn-shop-renee-good-ben-shapiro

Catherine Rampell and Andrew Egger break down Donald Trump’s bizarre new interview with Time Magazine, from his claims about having the “highest” IQ to his ever-changing story about how long the war in Iran was supposed to last. They also discuss Trump’s claim that annihilating Iran would create peace, his latest attempt to rewrite his four-to-six-week timeline, his complaints about “negative” questions, and his fixation on the White House renovations and other personal projects.

Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joins Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker to share her takes on what she learned from her recent trips to Hungary and Poland and what those lessons could mean for America after the Trump era. Slotkin explains how countries can recover from authoritarianism, why she believes the U.S. needs to “Trump-proof” its government, and why Democrats need a new generation of leaders with big and bold ideas. She also discusses the growing grassroots pressure around government surveillance, the need for congressional oversight of war powers, and the threat she sees to the American middle class and the American dream.

Former CIA officer Marc Polymeropoulos and national security reporter Michael Weiss take on the attempted hijacking of a flight bound for Tel Aviv, a suspected plot targeting an air base in Britain, and the troubling signs that Iran may be taking its fight abroad. They also ask whether America is prepared for a renewed terror threat as experienced counterterrorism personnel and resources are pulled toward other priorities.

Sam Stein and Ben Parker give their takes on Pete Hegseth’s bizarre State of the Force address, from his “no fatties, no weirdos” vision for the military to his fixation on testosterone, wokeness and American universities. They also dig into Hegseth’s new Project Meridian, which will bring together Elon Musk, Palmer Luckey and Newt Gingrich to study the future of warfare, as well as his proposal to have governors compete for new troop deployments. Sam and Ben discuss Hegseth’s attacks on the press, his history of purging military leaders and advisory boards, and the growing signs that he may have his eyes on a political future beyond the Pentagon. Plus, why does Hegseth’s vision seem so focused on domestic political enemies while the U.S. is dealing with actual wars and threats from countries like Iran and China?

Ken Paxton is caught on tape blaming Donald Trump for hurting his Senate campaign, telling a small group of donors that Trump’s Texas convention actually hurt his numbers. The New York Times first reported on the leaked recording, which came from a small Paxton fundraiser where an attendee recorded the conversation. JVL and Andrew Egger break down Paxton’s donor problems, his reliance on Trump’s financial support, and what the recording reveals about his struggling campaign. They also discuss Paxton’s political baggage, the Texas Senate race against James Talarico, and Angela Paxton’s unusual argument that Republicans should keep the seat “in the family” despite their ongoing divorce. Plus, why the Paxton campaign’s struggles could reveal deeper problems for Texas Republicans and the MAGA movement.

Ben Parker and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) give their takes on Pete Hegseth’s reported plan to cut 20% of the military’s general and flag officers, and what that could mean for military leadership, congressional oversight, and civilian-military relations. They also discuss Hegseth’s push to remake Department of Defense schools, including curriculum changes and book bans, as well as growing concerns about the Pentagon’s handling of military casualty reporting. Plus, U.S. Ambassador to China David Perdue’s odd comments that Trump reportedly offered to sell U.S. weapons to China and the end of the U.S. military mission in Iraq after more than two decades.

Sam Stein and Andrew Egger give their takes on Republican Sen. Eric Schmitt’s disastrous attempt to catch former special counsel Jack Smith in a perjury trap during a Senate Judiciary hearing. Schmitt thought he had a smoking gun showing Smith was in Atlanta for a Hawks game on the same day as a controversy involving Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis. But there was one problem: Smith wasn’t at the Hawks game. The text messages Schmitt’s team found were apparently referring to the Iowa Hawkeyes women's basketball team, who were playing in Maryland that same day. Sen. Amy Klobuchar quickly pointed out the apparent mix-up, while Schmitt continued to defend his questioning even after accusing Smith of perjury. Sam and Andrew also discuss the poor timing of this faceplant after Axios reported that Eric Schmitt was being floated as a possible running mate for JD Vance in 2028. Get 60% off your first box of fresh, chef-crafted Tempo meals at https://tempomeals.com/BULWARKTAKES. Rules and restrictions may apply.

Andrew Egger and Bill Kristol give their takes on Jack Smith’s testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee, where Smith defended his decision to prosecute Donald Trump and said he would make the same decision regardless of whether Trump were a Republican or Democrat. They also discuss Republicans’ focus on the former special counsel, Chuck Grassley’s accusations against Smith, and Bill’s argument that the hearing amounts to a “perjury trap.” Then, Andrew makes the case for Democrats to keep impeachment on the table if they retake power in 2026, arguing that Trump’s use of government resources for political messaging and other alleged abuses could warrant renewed scrutiny. Bill and Andrew compare the current political environment with Trump’s 2019 impeachment and debate what Democrats should do if they regain control of Congress. Plus, Bill lays out why he sees a broader 2026 Senate map as potentially competitive, including races in states that have traditionally been difficult terrain for Democrats. Get 60% off your first box of fresh, chef-crafted Tempo meals at https://tempomeals.com/BULWARKTAKES. Rules and restrictions may apply.

Michael Weiss and Marc Polymeropoulos are back to give their takes on the latest allegations of corruption and counterintelligence concerns surrounding the Trump administration, including Alina Habba’s star-studded wedding and the appearance of FBI Director Kash Patel alongside a former informant who was suspected of being a double agent. They also look at U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle and her relationship with a Greek lobbyist, allegations that she pressured Greek officials over energy contracts, and claims that she threatened to help bring down the Greek government. Plus, Michael and Marc discuss the FBI’s leadership turmoil after a top deputy resigned.

Sam Stein and Will Sommer break down the latest drama on the online right, from a bizarre AI video posted by Trump aide Dan Scavino to the growing influence of QAnon conspiracy theories inside Trump world. Will explains why QAnon followers believe Scavino was sending them a coded signal and what the reaction reveals about the movement. Plus, the pro-data-center party bringing a strange mix of MAGA, tech, and online-right figures together in Washington, Mark Halperin’s warnings about Republican prospects, and the growing fight over anti-Indian rhetoric on the right. Sam and Will also discuss disgusting comments from Texas railroad commissioner candidate Bo French, including previously deleted posts found by CNN's KFile calling for the execution of Barack Obama.

Trump says he’s banning news organizations over negative coverage. Then his own officials go on TV and insist that’s not what’s happening. Will Saletan meticulously breaks down Todd Blanche’s defense of Trump’s press crackdown, Mike Waltz getting confronted with the president’s own words, and the shifting story about the war with Iran.

Trump’s White House is racking up losses, picking fights with the press, and increasingly operating without anyone willing to tell the president no. Bill Kristol talks with former Trump White House deputy press secretary Sarah Matthews about what’s happening behind the scenes, why Republicans are suddenly putting some distance between themselves and Trump, and why she fears things could get even more reckless after the midterms.

Catherine Rampell and Will Sommer take on Trump’s escalating war on the White House press, the amateur-hour MAGA media operation stepping in to replace the traditional White House pool, and Byron Donalds’ awkward attempt to put a little distance between himself and Trump. Plus, Kimberly Guilfoyle’s misadventures as ambassador to Greece involve a mysterious lobbyist, questionable energy dealings, a middle-of-the-night trip to Albania, a shattered vodka venture, and one extraordinary warning to a U.S. ally. Byron Donalds removes Trump references from his campaign website: https://www.washingtonpost.com/elections/2026/09/22/byron-donalds-removes-trump-mentions-florida-governor-campaign-website/ Trump responds by announcing two rallies with Byron Donalds: https://floridapolitics.com/archives/821961-trump-to-rally-twice-with-byron-donalds-ahead-of-election-day-says-donalds-would-lose-if-he-dropped-trump/ The Mystery Man Shadowing Kimberly Guilfoyle as She Pushes Deals Across Europe: https://www.wsj.com/articles/kimberly-guilfoyle-mystery-man-energy-5adeb541?mod=hp_lead_pos10 Listen to Catherine's new show, Receipts! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/receipts-with-catherine-rampell/id6807470569 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1O2Z2akwyonpAsbxyMqBTV?si=7d81ca2f299e4409

Marc Polymeropoulos and Michael Weiss examine the growing Russian threat in Europe, separating the real danger of Russian sabotage and state terrorism from the media panic over a potential Russian invasion of NATO territory. They discuss the intelligence briefing that sparked concerns across Europe, how the assessment has since been revised downward, and why Russia’s escalating sabotage campaign could still lead to a dangerous mass-casualty event. They also examine how Europe can respond to Russian aggression, the role of NATO and Article 5, and why Russia may be testing how willing the West is to push back. Need specialized help without adding another full-time hire? Find skilled freelance professionals for software development, marketing, design, business operations, and more on Upwork. Sign up and post your job for free at https://www.upwork.com/

Jon Ossoff is running so far ahead in Georgia that his strength is starting to shape the races around him. Tim Miller and Lauren Egan look at the striking gap between Ossoff and Keisha Lance Bottoms, whether Ossoff can drag the Democratic ticket across the finish line, and why the governor’s race could wind up determining whether he has a real shot at the presidency in 2028. Need specialized help without adding another full-time hire? Find skilled freelance professionals for software development, marketing, design, business operations, and more on Upwork. Sign up and post your job for free at https://www.upwork.com/ Lauren Egan’s Opposition newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/the-opposition New YouGov poll: Ossoff leads Collins by 10 while the governor’s race is effectively tied:https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/new-2026-georgia-poll-ossoff-leads-senate-race-governor-race-tied Jon Ossoff’s Georgia race stirs talk of a 2028 presidential run:https://www.ft.com/content/90714056-d364-43d9-9411-9bde92f966b3 Chris Christie says he’s considering another presidential run:https://www.wmur.com/article/chris-christie-run-president-92226/73842195

Tim Miller gives his take on the Republican candidates who are suddenly calling for an end to the Iran war after repeatedly supporting it. John James, Mike Rogers, Tom Tiffany and Ashley Hinson are all trying to distance themselves from the war, but Tim asks the obvious question: What is their actual plan to end it? They don't have one. Plus, Tim also looks at Roger Marshall’s attempt to distance himself from the Trump administration’s ICE policies. Upgrade your sleep with Boll & Branch. Get 15% off your first order plus free shipping at https://www.BollAndBranch.com/bulwarktakes with code bulwarktakes. Exclusions apply. Springfield Benefit: https://www.thebulwark.com/events?event_id=event-hQcBaHvoEZ

Sam Stein, Brendan Hartnett and Will Sommer discuss the chaos surrounding the White House press corps after CNN, Politico and MS NOW were banned from the White House, then allowed back on the premises but haven't gotten reassurances that CNN would be allowed back into the TV pool. They also take on the right-wing media’s attempt to create its own version of the White House press pool, including technical failures, a lack of basic pool protocol and footage that appeared to show Trump’s motorcade too closely. Plus, they examine the launch of “Trump TV,” a White House livestream featuring hours of looping Trump footage that drew only a small audience. Upgrade your sleep with Boll & Branch. Get 15% off your first order plus free shipping at https://www.BollAndBranch.com/bulwarktakes with code bulwarktakes. Exclusions apply.

Andrew Egger is joined by Maryland Gov. Wes Moore to give his take on Maryland’s new AI regulations, the rapid growth of data centers, and the need for guardrails around increasingly powerful AI models. Moore explains why he believes AI is moving faster than government safeguards, criticizes the White House’s approach, and raises concerns about Trump’s personal financial stake in the AI boom. They also discuss AI safety, potential benefits in government and healthcare, and whether the U.S. should cooperate with China on regulating increasingly powerful AI systems. Upgrade your sleep with Boll & Branch. Get 15% off your first order plus free shipping at https://www.BollAndBranch.com/bulwarktakes with code bulwarktakes. Exclusions apply.

Tim Miller steps outside the bubble for a conversation with Brandon Weichert, a former Trump supporter and American Greatness writer who has become deeply disillusioned with the administration. They take on Trump’s Iran war, his growing foreign-policy mess, the GOP’s increasingly dangerous midterm map, and what could happen if Democrats take back Congress. Watch more on Mario Nawfal’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/marionawfal Looking for a different way to unwind? Soul’s Mood Gummies pair precise dosing and clean ingredients with formulas designed for different moods, whether you want to feel uplifted, mellow, or somewhere in between. Get 30% off your entire order at https://getsoul.com with promo code BULWARKTAKES.

JVL and Lawfare's Benjamin Wittes take on the strange legal fight over Trump’s ballroom and proposed triumphal arch, including why standing may be the biggest obstacle to stopping them and what John Roberts’ dissent could be signaling to future challengers. They also dig into a bigger question: whether Congress, the courts, and the power of the purse can actually constrain a president determined to push ahead anyway. Looking for a different way to unwind? Soul’s Mood Gummies pair precise dosing and clean ingredients with formulas designed for different moods, whether you want to feel uplifted, mellow, or somewhere in between. Get 30% off your entire order at https://getsoul.com with promo code BULWARKTAKES. A quick note: Look, there probably aren’t many media outlets willing to spend 45 minutes going extremely deep on the finer points of standing, appropriations law, and Trump’s ballroom. We are that kind of outlet. If you’re the kind of person who appreciates that, become a paid Bulwark member and help us keep doing this.

Ben Parker and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) break down President Trump’s extraordinary comments at the United Nations about Venezuela, including his claim that “to the victor belong the spoils.” Hertling explains why that language raises serious questions under international law and walks through the laws and treaties that prohibit pillage and establish a nation’s sovereignty over its natural resources. They also discuss the growing power of the Houthis in Yemen, Saudi Arabia’s complicated relationship with the United States, and what Riyadh could do if it can no longer rely on American support. Hertling also weighs in on Secretary Pete Hegseth’s new system for evaluating senior military officers and the history Hegseth is invoking to defend it.

Rep. Jim Himes, ranking member of the House Intelligence Committee, joins Marc Polymeropoulos and Michael Weiss for his take on the major national security risks surrounding the Trump administration. Himes explains the counterintelligence concerns surrounding the reported Russian financing of Donald Trump Jr.’s wedding and why the access to Trump’s inner circle at the event could have created an unusually soft target for Russian intelligence. They also discuss the intelligence community’s warnings about war with Iran, and the possibility of another Middle East conflict. Plus, Russia’s war in Ukraine, Trump’s negotiations with Vladimir Putin, John Ratcliffe’s role in the talks, and the ongoing investigation into Havana syndrome and anomalous health incidents. Weight Loss by Hims offers access to personalized weight loss treatment, including FDA-approved GLP-1 medications. Learn more and get started at https://www.hims.com/bulwarktakes

Andrew Egger and Bill Kristol went live to react to Trump’s address to the United Nations, breaking down his claims about Iran, Russia and Ukraine, Venezuela, Greenland, the economy and America’s role in the world. Trump made wild comments about Russia’s war against Ukraine, including a grotesque false equivalence between Ukrainian children abducted into Russia and his claim that Russian children were also abducted into Ukraine. They also examine Trump’s claims about Iran, including his repeated insistence that he had no choice but to launch the war, his promises that a deal is still just around the corner, and the widening gap between his self-image as a president who ends wars and the reality of a conflict he chose to start. Plus, Trump’s vision for artificial intelligence includes renaming it “super intelligence,” and insisting that the United States must stay ahead of China while resisting international efforts to regulate the technology. Weight Loss by Hims offers access to personalized weight loss treatment, including FDA-approved GLP-1 medications. Learn more and get started at https://www.hims.com/bulwarktakes

Ready to be seen? Check that appointment off your to-do list with Zocdoc:https://zocdoc.com/ bulwarktakes #sponsored Tim Miller and David Pakman take on Trump’s plummeting poll numbers, the White House putting Pakman on its official “Media Offenders” list, and the creators who Pakman says are now afraid to interview him because they fear becoming targets themselves. They also discuss how algorithms reward outrage and misinformation, the coming flood of synthetic political content, and Pakman’s new book, Pay Attention, about what the attention economy is doing to our politics and our brains. David Pakman’s new book, Pay Attention: How the Algorithms and Media Wars Are Suppressing Truth and Rewiring Your Brain:https://davidpakman.com/davids-books/ The David Pakman Show:https://davidpakman.com/

Ready to be seen? Check that appointment off your to-do list with Zocdoc:https://zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes #sponsored The White House is trying to defend Donald Trump’s decision to ban major news organizations from covering the White House and the policy is already producing some pretty absurd results. JVL and Will Sommer discuss Trump’s crackdown on the press, including a Newsmax broadcast where viewers couldn’t hear the president because the press pool wasn’t there to provide audio. They also examine the upcoming court fight over White House press access, the administration’s new White House app, and the question of whether Democrats should respond by restricting access for outlets like Fox News and Newsmax. Plus, JVL and Will debate the broader problem facing the press: Trump’s escalating efforts to favor friendly media, punish outlets he dislikes, and blur the line between journalism and political propaganda.

Ready to be seen? Check that appointment off your to-do list with Zocdoc ✅ : https://zocdoc.com/ bulwarktakes #sponsored Will Sommer and Sonny Bunch take on Trump’s escalating war on the press, the TV networks pushing back on his White House ban, and the growing signs that even some longtime allies are getting sick of the chaos. Plus: Trump’s plan to put snipers in his giant D.C. arch, the bizarre MAGA fight over Indian Americans, Turning Point’s James Fishback problem, and the very questionable Lauren Boebert allegations.

Sam Stein and Will Saletan take a look at Donald Trump’s latest architectural fever dream: a 250-foot triumphal arch near Arlington Cemetery that Trump says will double as a “top grade Military Complex,” complete with drones and snipers. They dig into the bizarre location, the questionable military rationale and Trump’s claim that the project came at the “strong request” of the military. As Sam and Will point out, this is an enormous armed monument sitting near Reagan National Airport, the Pentagon and Arlington Cemetery. What could possibly go wrong? Then they turn to Trump’s escalating crackdown on the press. CNN, MS NOW and Politico lost White House credentials after Trump objected to their coverage, and Republicans defended the move. And if you think the press should simply accept this as the new normal, Sam has a story from the Obama years that offers a different lesson.

Sam Stein and former CIA officer Marc Polymeropoulos give their takes on the flurry of international headlines over the weekend. The Houthis have escalated attacks on Saudi Arabia, including strikes on Riyadh, while Ukraine has launched a major wave of drone and missile strikes on Moscow and Russian energy infrastructure. They also discuss the Trump administration’s response to the Saudi crisis, the U.S. role in Ukraine, Russia’s escalating attacks and sabotage efforts across Europe, and the prospect of a brutal winter for Ukraine.

Tim Miller is back with another installment in his continuing series on the Republican candidates running in key races across the country. This time it’s Michael Whatley, Trump’s handpicked Senate candidate in North Carolina, whose record includes appointing a convicted child sex offender to a state GOP committee, hard-line abortion politics, financial interests tied to policies he supports, and questions about his role in Hurricane Helene recovery. Plus, Tim digs into the ugly story behind an anti-Roy Cooper ad featuring a grieving father who says he was misled about how his story would be used. Explore more in this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdXT8ySfDKu0

Bill Kristol talks with Robert Kagan about how Trump’s Iran war is accelerating America’s retreat from the world, leaving allies to fend for themselves while China and Russia gain room to maneuver. They also discuss Trump’s unfinished ambitions in Greenland, Xi Jinping’s visit to Washington, and Kagan’s warning that the breakdown of the postwar order could move much faster than Washington is prepared for.

Donald Trump has banned CNN, MS NOW and Politico from the White House, and this time, he followed through. Will Saletan and Will Sommer discuss Trump’s escalating attack on the press, his claim that the outlets can return if they start covering him more favorably, and what the crackdown could mean for journalists across Washington. They also discuss the First Amendment implications of viewpoint-based press access, Trump’s broader use of legal and regulatory pressure against media organizations, the FCC’s actions under Brendan Carr, and the White House’s decision to elevate openly partisan right-wing media while shutting out mainstream news organizations.

Ben Parker and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) break down the latest developments in the Iran war, including reports that AI-generated intelligence nearly led the U.S. military to board a Chinese vessel in the Strait of Hormuz. They discuss the dangers of relying on false intelligence, the importance of human oversight, and what can happen when bad information makes its way into military decision-making. They also examine reports that the Pentagon may be undercounting U.S. military deaths in the Middle East, as well as the growing cost of the Iran war. Plus, sensitive F-35 parts that were supposed to be shipped to the United States somehow ended up in Hong Kong. Finally, Ben and General Hertling fact-check President Trump’s claims about the massive amount of Venezuelan oil the U.S. supposedly secured, including his claim that America got 65 billion barrels of oil and 500 years’ worth of supply. Hertling explains what the deal actually entails and whether it constitutes a war crime. A quick note: Paid members of the Bulwark give us the freedom to follow the news wherever it leads, including stories that don’t just chase an algorithm. That’s why we can spend real time with experts like General Hertling on stories we think deserve your attention. If you think this kind of coverage is worthwhile, please consider becoming a paid members on Apple Podcasts, YouTube or Substack.

Bill Kristol talks with Nathaniel Zelinsky, the lead counsel challenging Trump’s efforts at the Kennedy Center, about the president’s demolition threats, the judge putting new limits on what the administration can do, and what happens if Trump simply refuses to obey a court order. Zelinsky explains why this fight over one building could become a much bigger test of the rule of law.

Join George Conway, Andrew Egger and Catherine Rampell as they cover the protests at the Kennedy Center.

A note for podcast listeners: Receipts with Catherine Rampell now has its own podcast feed! This is the final episode that will appear in the Bulwark Takes feed, so search for “Receipts with Catherine Rampell” and follow or subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts to make sure you don’t miss the next episode. Catherine and JVL take on Canada’s accelerating break with the United States, Trump’s self-inflicted inflation problem, and the dangerous game unfolding between the White House and the Federal Reserve. Plus, DOGE somehow managed to spend $9.5 billion paying federal workers not to work, while government data that could expose tax cheating is quietly disappearing.

Sam Stein and Will Sommer give their takes to The Daily Wire’s bizarre new movie, Run Hide Fight: Infidels. They dig into the film’s deeply anti-Muslim premise, its portrayal of liberals, LGBTQ students and campus progressives, and the strange political fantasy at the center of the story. Will explains the chaotic plot and bizarre characters to Jonathan Majors’ surprisingly limited role, despite the over-sized marketing. Plus, they discuss the Daily Wire’s response to Will’s review and the wildest moments from the film. Find your next fall favorites at Quince. Download the Quince app for app-exclusive offers, or go to https://www.quince.com/BULWARKTAKES. Get free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada and the UK, too.

Trump is threatening the future of the Kennedy Center if he doesn’t get the recognition he wants. Andrew Egger and George Conway give their takes on Trump’s push to put his name on the institution, his talk of demolishing the building, and the surreal image of Trump looking at a mock-up of the Kennedy Center in ruins. They also discuss the growing clash between the Trump administration and the courts, the administration’s conflicting claims about the Kennedy Center’s closure, and why the courts alone may not be enough to check presidential power. Plus, Conway explains why Congress ultimately has to reassert its authority to investigate, supervise, and hold the administration accountable. Find your next fall favorites at Quince. Download the Quince app for app-exclusive offers, or go to https://www.quince.com/BULWARKTAKES. Get free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada and the UK, too.

Tim Miller, Sam Stein and Will Sommer take on a bizarre collection of stories from MAGA and the Republican Party, including Milo Yiannopoulos’ messy divorce, a GOP nominee’s ties to the Unite the Right rally, Victor Marx’s latest campaign controversies and a Republican candidate who fell for a fake Kai Trump account. Plus, the trio breaks down Kash Patel’s contentious hearing and his eyebrow-raising FBI spending, before meeting a Republican congressional candidate with a 20-song Trump rap album. Find your next fall favorites at Quince. Download the Quince app for app-exclusive offers, or go to https://www.quince.com/BULWARKTAKES. Get free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada and the UK, too.

Gas prices are surging and this time, the outlook is getting even uglier. Tim Miller is joined by Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, to break down why oil prices are climbing, why diesel prices are hitting record levels, and why Americans could be facing $7 and $8 diesel this winter. De Haan explains how the escalating conflict in the Middle East, attacks on Russian refineries, tight diesel inventories, and refinery disruptions are squeezing the global fuel market. Forty-two states are already seeing record diesel prices, while the national gas average is creeping back toward this year’s high. With refineries operating at nearly 98% capacity and diesel inventories 15% below their five-year average, De Haan warns there is very little room for another disruption, especially heading into winter. And despite talk of prices coming down after the midterms, he says there’s no magic date when the underlying problems simply disappear. The day always ends well with Casper. Right now save up to 30% on mattresses and up to 35% on everything else when you go to https://Casper.com

Ben Parker and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) give their takes on the rapidly expanding Iran war, from attacks on U.S. military installations and disruptions to oil supplies to the growing conflict with the Houthis and the strain on American forces across the Middle East. They discuss the potential economic consequences, including the estimated $38 billion already spent on the war and the billions more it could cost each month. Plus, they examine Rep. Thomas Massie’s impeachment articles against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, what the move could mean inside the Pentagon, and the military’s relationship with Congress. Read more from Mark: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/the-iran-war-is-moving-too-fast-for-washington-trump-houthis-yemen-saudi-arabia-pipeline-bab-mandab-hormuz-oil-iraq The day always ends well with Casper. Right now save up to 30% on mattresses and up to 35% on everything else when you go to https://Casper.com.

Sam Stein is joined by Chris Whipple, who wrote for Vanity Fair about the remarkable political transformation of J.D. Vance, from a young Trump critic at Yale Law School to Trump’s vice president and a potential MAGA successor. They dig into Vance’s behind-the-scenes efforts in 2016 to help Hillary Clinton defeat Trump and examine what drove his dramatic reversal. Was Vance always destined for MAGA, or did something change along the way? Plus, Chris shares what Susie Wiles told him about Vance’s evolution and why she viewed his transformation differently from other Republican politicians. Read more: https://www.vanityfair.com/story/jd-vance-yale-law The day always ends well with Casper. Right now save up to 30% on mattresses and up to 35% on everything else when you go to https://Casper.com.

Trump is raging at the Supreme Court after his own appointees helped block his administration’s mail-ballot rules, and George Conway joins Sam Stein to discuss the ruling, Trump’s extraordinary attack on the justices he picked, and what could come next as the midterms approach. Then things take a sharp turn as they watch Kash Patel try to explain one of the strangest—and grossest—FBI controversies you’re ever likely to hear discussed in a Senate hearing. Check your brain and health the way I do. Function provides 160+ lab tests for $1/day and member pricing on advanced imaging. Join at https://functionhealth.com/BULWARKTAKES and use code BULWARKTAKES25 for a $25 credit.

Republicans spent their midterm convention warning that communists are coming for America. Will Saletan runs their own definition of “communism” against Donald Trump’s promises of $5,000 checks, government stakes in private companies, admiration for China, and even his jokes about being “the greatest communist in history”—and finds the GOP’s argument collapsing under its own weight. Check your brain and health the way I do. Function provides 160+ lab tests for $1/day and member pricing on advanced imaging. Join at https://functionhealth.com/BULWARKTAKES and use code BULWARKTAKES25 for a $25 credit.

Bill Kristol and guest host Ben Parker break down the latest New York Times/Siena polling showing Democrats with a significant advantage on the generic congressional ballot heading into the midterms. They discuss why Democrats are now leading Republicans on the economy, cost of living, immigration, and foreign wars. They also examine the growing political problem Republicans face on artificial intelligence, with voters overwhelmingly opposed to new AI data centers in their communities. Bill explains why Democrats could use Trump’s aggressive stance on AI to put Republicans on the defensive. Plus, the conversation turns to Kash Patel’s bizarre Senate hearing, including questions about the FBI’s hiring rules involving bestiality, and why the absurd exchange distracts from much more serious questions about the FBI. Ben and Bill also discuss Patel’s handling of the Epstein files and why the administration’s refusal to provide meaningful transparency could become a bigger issue in the midterm elections. Check your brain and health the way I do. Function provides 160+ lab tests for $1/day and member pricing on advanced imaging. Join at functionhealth.com/BULWARKTAKES and use code BULWARKTAKES25 for a $25 credit.

Tim Miller gives his take on Trump’s latest manic posting spree, from AI and China to oil prices, Iran, Ukraine, and Trump’s repeated promises of tariff-funded “dividend” checks. Tim also takes on Trump’s claim that AI safety concerns are a “hoax” and his push to accelerate AI development with minimal guardrails. Plus, a new federal watchdog report details disturbing conditions at Florida’s now-shuttered “Alligator Alcatraz,” where detainees were confined in small outdoor metal cages that officials described as “calming areas.” Check your brain and health the way I do. Function provides 160+ lab tests for $1/day and member pricing on advanced imaging. Join at functionhealth.com/BULWARKTAKES and use code BULWARKTAKES25 for a $25 credit.

Go to https://zbiotics.com/bulwarktakes and use code BULWARKTAKES at checkout for 15% off any first-time orders of ZBiotics probiotics. #ad Join Sam Stein and Andrew Egger as they cover the breaking news that the Supreme Court has blocked Trump's executive order on mail-in ballots.

Go to https://zbiotics.com/bulwarktakes and use code BULWARKTAKES at checkout for 15% off any first-time orders of ZBiotics probiotics. #ad Catherine Rampell and Andrew Egger take on the pure Trumpian madness engulfing the Kennedy Center, which could close as early as Tuesday after Trump’s takeover drove away donors, performers, and audiences. Now his handpicked board says Trump may be the only person who can “rescue” it—and has laid out ten different ways the institution could honor him in return.

Go to https://zbiotics.com/bulwarktakes and use code BULWARKTAKES at checkout for 15% off any first-time orders of ZBiotics probiotics. #ad Marc Polymeropoulos and Michael Weiss give their takes on the ProPublica report that a Russian oligarch close to Vladimir Putin secretly bankrolled Donald Trump Jr.’s lavish Bahamas wedding. They examine the counterintelligence implications of a Putin-connected figure giving hundreds of thousands of dollars to the president’s son, including the potential for leverage, access, compromise and influence inside Trump’s inner circle. They also discuss the oligarch’s connections to Russian ultra-nationalist groups and the war in Ukraine, including ties to an organization accused of helping abduct Ukrainian children. Plus, Mark and Michael explore what the FBI, Congress and national security-minded Republicans should do with the revelations and why the growing normalization of Russian influence could pose an even bigger threat. A quick note: We know Russian counterintelligence isn’t exactly algorithm bait. But when a story like this breaks, we want to be able to call up people who have spent their careers inside this world and give them the time to explain what everyone else is missing. Paid Bulwark members make that kind of work possible: not just chasing the biggest audience, but putting real expertise behind stories that deserve serious attention.

ZBiotics: Go to https://zbiotics.com/bulwarktakes and use code BULWARKTAKES at checkout for 15% off any first-time orders of ZBiotics probiotics. #ad Sam Stein and Will Sommer dig into the bombshell ProPublica report that a Russian oligarch close to Vladimir Putin secretly bankrolled Donald Trump Jr.’s lavish Bahamas wedding. Then, they take a critical look at 60 Minutes’ investigation into the booming business of lobbying for presidential pardons, including its undercover sting of Jacob Wohl and Jack Burkman. Plus, Will explains the bizarre circumstances surrounding the sudden resignation of Trump ally Joe diGenova’s resignation, and the latest saga involving MAGA influencer Matt Tardio and his bizarre “Antifa got me high” defense. All that, plus the truly strange story of Jacob Wohl’s dad and a very weird MAGA calendar. Read more from Will: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/maga-influencer-matt-tardio-defense-antifa-got-me-high

Sam Stein and Will Saletan take on Mike Johnson’s defense of Republican congressional candidate Brandon Herrera despite the gun YouTuber’s grotesque comments about women and children—and the stark contrast with how Democrats police their own candidates. They also dissect Donald Trump’s proposed $5,000 payout if Republicans retain Congress, then debate the administration’s lack of urgency as AI insiders warn of catastrophic risks and Johnson invokes competition with China to resist rapid regulation.

Tim Miller breaks down two political moments from the weekend that caught his attention. First, he takes on the backlash from a Texas Republican candidate over viral photos of Indian American students celebrating a football game at the University of Texas, and why Republicans should be forced to answer for openly racist rhetoric from a candidate for statewide office. Then Tim turns to the Alaska Senate race and the debate between Mary Peltola and Dan Sullivan. He highlights Peltola’s argument that the Iran war is driving up fuel costs for Alaskan fishermen and families, as well as a viral debate moment when Sullivan has to look to Peltola for his answer during a yes-or-no question. To get tickets for upcoming Bulwark events—including our show for Springfield, OH—go to https://thebulwark.com/events. Relevant Links: Bo French’s posts about UT students / John Cornyn’s response:https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/trending/article/cornyn-bo-french-ut-students-tweet-22429931.php Bo French’s previous controversial poll:https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article309580905.html Alaska Senate fisheries debate — Mary Peltola vs. Dan Sullivan: https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/alaska-us-senate-candidates-debate-fisheries-industry/685130 Kansas Senate debate — Roger Marshall vs. Adam Hamilton:https://www.kwch.com/2026/09/10/candidates-kansas-governor-us-senate-debate-live-kansas-state-fair/

Bill Kristol and Richard North Patterson trace how America went from a seemingly conventional political system to Trump’s second term, where the institutions and powerful people expected to serve as guardrails have often failed to stand up to him. They look at the GOP’s transformation, economic insecurity, the capitulation of business and legal elites—and why the millions of ordinary Americans showing up for “No Kings” and other grassroots resistance give them reason for hope.

Tim Miller takes a closer look at Kansas Sen. Roger Marshall, whose record as a doctor is under new scrutiny after a New York Times investigation found that he sued more than 700 patients over medical debt, with 81 ultimately arrested after missing court dates. Plus: Marshall’s views on healthcare and vaccines, his support for Trump’s Iran war and tariffs, and his record of going along with the president even as Kansans face higher costs. Related Links: The New York Times: “A Doctor Sued 700 Patients for Debts; 81 Were Arrested. Now He’s a Senator.”https://www.nytimes.com/2026/09/08/us/politics/roger-marshall-obgyn-doctor-debts.html STAT: “Two months ago, this doctor was delivering babies. Now he’s at the nexus of the Obamacare fight”https://www.statnews.com/2017/03/03/roger-marshall-kansas-obamacare/ The Kansas City Star: “Roger Marshall calls Kansas cabin home. Official trips took him near $1.2M Florida house”https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article292974104.html The Beacon: “Why 30 hospitals in Kansas and 12 in Missouri are at risk of closure”https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2026/01/08/why-30-rural-hospitals-in-kansas-and-12-in-missouri-are-at-risk/ The Bulwark: Sam Stein and Tim Miller interview Adam Hamiltonhttps://www.thebulwark.com/p/sam-stein-and-adam-hamilton-trumps Watch more in Tim's series about the worst Republicans running in the 2026 midterm: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdXT8ySfDKu0

Sam Stein and Sonny Bunch unpack Sonny’s experience covering the Republican Party’s bizarre midterm convention in Dallas where they almost didn't let him in the arena. Sonny walks through the convention’s strange credentialing saga, the overwhelming focus on Donald Trump, and an event that seemed less like a traditional party convention and more like a celebration of Trump himself. From Trump memorabilia and a pledge to the president to a convention floor united around Trump, Sonny explains what the GOP looks like up close and why the party appears to have no identity beyond Donald Trump. They also discuss the surprising prominence of Charlie Kirk at the convention, JD Vance’s appeal to Kirk’s legacy while defending Trump’s Iran policy, and the one issue that actually appeared to divide attendees.

Ben Parker and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) break down the latest escalation across the Middle East, including an attack on Saudi Arabia’s East-West Pipeline, a critical alternative route designed to move oil around the Strait of Hormuz. With the pipeline damaged and the Houthis taking control of key positions along the Red Sea, the region’s major shipping routes are facing growing disruption. The attacks threaten far more than oil. The Bab al-Mandab and Red Sea are critical routes for food, grain, packaged goods and cargo moving between the Gulf, Europe, Asia and Africa. Mark explains why Iran and the Houthis appear to have the initiative, why the U.S. is increasingly responding rather than setting the terms of the conflict, and how Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Pakistan and NATO could become entangled as the war continues to expand. Plus, the Somali pirates becoming active again and shippers now face another threat once they make it through the region’s increasingly dangerous choke points. Your health matters and taking care of yourself shouldn’t be complicated. Head to Zocdoc.com/BulwarkTakes to get started and check that appointment off your to-do list.

Catherine Rampell and JVL break down the latest inflation numbers and why the Trump administration is desperately trying to convince Americans that rising prices are actually good news. Inflation hit 3.4% in August, real wages are falling behind, consumer confidence is sinking, and diesel prices have crossed $6 a gallon for the first time. They also give their takes on the looming fight between Trump and the Federal Reserve, as Kevin Warsh faces a potentially impossible choice between doing what the economy requires and doing what Trump wants. Plus, they take a closer look at Trump’s promise to send Americans $5,000 checks and why the plan may be even dumber than it sounds. Your health matters and taking care of yourself shouldn’t be complicated.  Head to Zocdoc.com/BulwarkTakes to get started and check that appointment off your to-do list. Read more from Catherine: https://www.thebulwark.com/receipts

Will Sommer and Andrew Egger dig into Katie Miller’s previously undisclosed financial stake in Elon Musk’s xAI and why it may shed new light on her relentless promotion of Grok. Miller has posted hundreds of times repeatedly attacked OpenAI, Anthropic, and other AI companies while boosting Grok as the AI for “true patriots.” But the Washington Post found through White House financial disclosures that she owns roughly $1 million in xAI stock. After the Post broke the story, FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson rushed to defend Katie and instead of declining to comment, Ferguson accused the Post of partisan attacks. Your health matters and taking care of yourself shouldn’t be complicated.  Head to https://Zocdoc.com/BulwarkTakes to get started and check that appointment off your to-do list. Read Will’s False Flag newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/false-flag…and for more Andrew Egger, check out Morning Shots: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/morningshots

Join Tim Miller, Sonny Bunch, Lauren Egan and Andrew Egger as they cover JD Vance's midterm convention speech live. For 3 Day Blinds’ buy 1 get 1 50% off deal, head to https://3DayBlinds.com/BULWARKTAKES.

Catherine Rampell and Andrew Egger take on the increasingly hard-to-dismiss warnings about superintelligent AI, after an Anthropic researcher quit over fears that the technology could eventually threaten humanity. They ask whether anyone can actually control increasingly powerful AI, whether the Trump administration is making the problem worse, and why Washington seems so unprepared for what may be coming. Plus: Hunter Biden launches a meme coin—and it goes about as well as you’d expect. For 3 Day Blinds’ buy 1 get 1 50% off deal, head to https://3DayBlinds.com/BULWARKTAKES. Read Andrew's Morning Shots newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/our-orange-napoleon-wants-a-big-arch-arlington-memorial-trump-burgum-ai-openai-anthropic-extinction-risk-911-september-11-canada-trade-war Jeff Stein — “Sam Altman Privately Rejected Giving OpenAI Shares to the Government”: https://washingtonsun.com/technology/sam-altman-privately-rejected-open-ai-government-equity

Will Sommer and Sam Stein went live for a special Thursday edition of MAGA Mondays. They give their takes on the fallout from Trump’s marathon RNC midterm convention speech, including his bizarre promise to give every American adult a $5,000 “dividend” if Republicans win the midterms. The proposed payout could cost more than $1 trillion, and even some MAGA figures are questioning where the money would come from. They also react to Vivek Ramaswamy’s painfully awkward attempt to look like a baseball player in a campaign video, Nick Shirley’s struggle with spelling, Milo Yiannopoulos hinting at a conversion to Islam, Laura Loomer’s latest convention grievances, and the strange saga surrounding Elijah Schaffer and Kash Patel's girlfriend. For 3 Day Blinds’ buy 1 get 1 50% off deal, head to https://3DayBlinds.com/BULWARKTAKES.

This is a long one, folks! If you're not strong enough to endure Trump's speech, skip to 2:07:00 for post-ordeal commentary. Join Sam Stein, Catherine Rampell, Will Sommer and Sonny Bunch for live coverage of Donald Trump's keynote address to the RNC's midterm convention. Try Larineco Pouches for nicotine-free focus plus daily enamel support, with 50mg of caffeine, L-Theanine, Alpha GPC, and nano-hydroxyapatite in every pouch. Get up to 50% off at https://buylarine.com/bulwarktakes

Sam Stein and Michael Weiss take on Steve Witkoff’s groveling meeting with Vladimir Putin, the growing power struggle inside Trump’s administration over Russia, and why CIA Director John Ratcliffe is emerging as a counterweight to Witkoff’s approach. Plus, Weiss explains why the reality on the battlefield may be considerably worse for Putin than the conventional wisdom suggests. Try Larineco Pouches for nicotine-free focus plus daily enamel support, with 50mg of caffeine, L-Theanine, Alpha GPC, and nano-hydroxyapatite in every pouch. Get up to 50% off at https://buylarine.com/bulwarktakes Related Links: Financial Times — US spy chief prepares for greater role in Russia-Ukraine talkshttps://www.ft.com/content/d0557d25-78b5-45d8-bb33-d655e859d803 The Wall Street Journal — How Putin Got His Preferred U.S. Envoy: Come Alone, No CIAhttps://www.wsj.com/world/putin-witkoff-russia-envoy-04da229d

Ben Parker and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) look back at 9/11, Trump’s bizarre remarks at a commemoration, and the lessons Hertling wishes America had learned over the last 25 years. Then they turn to the escalating Iran war, attacks on Saudi oil infrastructure, Pete Hegseth’s sidelining of Gen. Christopher Donahue, and the Pentagon’s effort to identify and remove transgender service members through their medical records. Try Larineco Pouches for nicotine-free focus plus daily enamel support, with 50mg of caffeine, L-Theanine, Alpha GPC, and nano-hydroxyapatite in every pouch. Get up to 50% off at https://buylarine.com/bulwarktakes Links: Mark Hertling: “A Letter to Myself on 9/11” https://www.thebulwark.com/p/a-letter-to-myself-on-911-september-11-world-trade-center-pentagon-al-qaeda-afghanistan-iraq-anniversary-war-terror The New York Times: “Inside the Battle to Save One Pioneering General From Hegseth’s Purge” https://www.nytimes.com/2026/09/06/us/politics/hegseth-army-general-donahue.html Federal News Network: “Pentagon searching medical records to identify transgender troops” https://federalnewsnetwork.com/defense-main/2026/09/pentagon-searching-medical-records-to-identify-transgender-troops/ Military.com: “Pentagon Moves Out on Transgender Ban After Supreme Court Ruling” https://www.military.com/daily-news/2025/05/09/about-1000-troops-slated-immediate-separation-under-reinstated-transgender-ban.html

Sam Stein and Will Sommer preview Trump’s strangely low-energy midterm convention, where Republicans are skipping town, lawmakers are being asked to cough up $25,000, and even the convention website has become an embarrassment. Plus, they discuss the increasingly bizarre campaign attacks coming from Elon Musk’s PAC and Ken Paxton—and what they say about the GOP’s plan for 2026. Find your next fall favorites at Quince. Download the Quince app for app-exclusive offers, or go to https://www.quince.com/BULWARKTAKES. Get free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada and the UK, too. The Bulwark will be watching the convention so you don’t have to—including live coverage when Vance and Trump take the stage. Join us as a member to support more of the reporting, analysis, and ridicule that goes into making sense of this stuff.

Andrew Egger and Bill Kristol discuss Donald Trump’s increasingly erratic social media posts, his proposed triumphal arch near Arlington National Cemetery, and the GOP’s Trump-centered midterm convention in Dallas as the elections draw closer. They also consider the expanding Senate battlefield, looming Supreme Court decisions affecting voting, and what a possible wave election could mean for Republicans. Find your next fall favorites at Quince. Download the Quince app for app-exclusive offers, or go to https://www.quince.com/BULWARKTAKES. Get free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada and the UK, too. Plus, we have huge news about the Bulwark’s Fall tour: Pete Buttigieg will be joining the gang for the Sunday, October 18 show in Charlotte, NC! Get your tickets at https://thebulwark.com/events. Like this video? You’ll love the Morning Shots newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/morningshots

Catherine Rampell and Joe Perticone discuss the growing signs that Republicans see Trump as a midterm liability, from candidates scrubbing his photos and endorsements from their websites to vulnerable members finding excuses to skip his big convention. They also look at the collapse of the MAGA merch business, Trump’s post about renaming New Mexico, and Kash Patel’s embarrassing AI-generated FBI propaganda. Joe Perticone, The Bulwark — “Sorry, Mr. President. I Have a Thing.”https://www.thebulwark.com/p/sorry-mr-president-i-have-a-thing-republican-midterm-convention-trumpapalooza-dallas-gop New York Times — "As Midterms Approach, Republicans Find There Is No Escape From Trump" https://www.nytimes.com/2026/09/06/us/politics/trump-miderm-elections-republicans.html Axios — “‘We’re stuck’: GOP accepts Trump’s all-about-me midterms”https://www.axios.com/2026/09/05/republicans-stuck-trump-midterms The Wall Street Journal — “In Trump’s Second Term, the MAGA Merchandise Boom Is Going Bust”https://www.wsj.com/politics/in-trumps-second-term-the-maga-merchandise-boom-is-going-bust-725bc43a CBS News — “At the FBI, a history of hiring prostitutes or stealing from employer may no longer be a barrier to being hired”https://www.cbsnews.com/news/fbi-candidates-prostitutes-theft/

Tim Miller sits down with New York Magazine’s Ben Terris to discuss his extraordinary reporting on Donald Trump’s obsession with the new White House ballroom. Ben spent 90 minutes with Trump, toured the ballroom construction site, and got a firsthand look at the massive project, which is already employing hundreds of workers. Trump claims the ballroom is being built with “nuclear concrete” strong enough to withstand a nuclear blast. He also opened up to Ben about why he’s so determined to build it, agreeing that nobody else would build monuments to him after he’s gone. Read more from Ben: https://nymag.com/intelligencer/article/donald-trump-white-house-ballroom-helipad-reflecting-pool-supreme-court.html

Bill Kristol and Sarah Longwell discuss Longwell’s new book, How to Eat an Elephant: One Voter at a Time, tracing the origins of The Bulwark and their efforts to oppose Trump while drawing lessons from years of voter focus groups. They consider how the media environment has changed, what Democrats can learn from Republican political infrastructure, how a broad pro-democracy coalition can manage internal disagreements, and what a successful strategy against Trumpism could look like. Buy Sarah's book: https://www.amazon.com/How-Eat-Elephant-Voter-Time/dp/B0GR8JRW71

Tim Miller and Sam Stein take on Fox firing Maria Bartiromo after she reportedly shared internal network information with the Trump White House, and revisit some of her most infamous conspiracy-theory moments. Then, they discuss the wild IG report on former Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, featuring strip clubs, an alleged affair, drinking on the job, staffers organizing her closet, and a suspiciously convenient trip to Vegas. Plus, Trumpworld unveils a bizarre Apprentice-style competition featuring Nicki Minaj and Dean Cain.

Mark Hertling and Ben Parker react live to Trump dismissing the mounting costs of the Iran war as “small potatoes.”

Catherine Rampell and JVL break down Donald Trump’s latest economic claims—and explain why his understanding of interest rates, inflation, and economic growth is so badly detached from reality. They also dig into a disturbing new trend: European countries are moving gold and other assets out of the United States as allies increasingly worry that Trump could weaponize America’s financial power against them. From Greenland and tariffs to threats of sanctions and asset seizures, the trust that once made the U.S. dollar the world’s safe haven is starting to erode. Plus: The Federal Reserve’s looming clash with the White House, the reliability of U.S. economic data, and why boring, predictable leadership might actually be good for the economy. And there’s big news for Receipts: Catherine is expanding the show with a second weekly episode featuring economists, experts, politicians, and other guests to explain how Trump’s economic agenda affects your everyday life. Read more from Catherine's newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/europe-gold-fled-the-nazis-now-its-fleeing-trump

Donald Trump wants Ken Paxton in the Senate, but he really wishes Paxton would do something about those ugly outfits. Trump has repeatedly praised Paxton as a loyal ally while taking bizarrely personal shots at his clothes, his appearance, and his interviews. Joe Perticone and Sonny Bunch give their takes on Trump’s obsession with how people look, the president’s apparent role as America’s new fashion police, and the truly questionable Ken Paxton fit that started it all. We examine the oversized shoes, the golf polo, the $40,000 watch, and why Joe thinks Paxton may have gone straight from the golf course to the campaign trail.

Will Saletan takes on Trump’s Venezuela oil deal, as the president openly brags that Venezuelan oil has already paid for the war “many times over” and Republicans argue that U.S. oil companies deserve benefits for the next 100 years. Saletan follows the money—and shows how the administration is putting oil profits ahead of the free elections it once promised. Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://hims.com/bulwarktakes to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you. Read Will's article: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/trump-is-keeping-venezuela-dictatorship-in-business-oil-deal-delcy-rodriguez A quick note: This is the kind of work Bulwark membership makes possible: not chasing the daily outrage, but giving Will Saletan the space to build a comprehensive case from beginning to end, show you the evidence, and explain exactly how all the pieces fit together. If you appreciate this, please consider paid membership.

Tim Miller joins Nicolle Wallace to discuss why the Republican Party can see Trump dragging it toward a midterm disaster but still can’t bring itself to break away. They also discuss the horrifying death of a young Haitian immigrant targeted by Trump’s deportation crackdown and the administration’s escalating efforts to interfere with voting—moves Tim argues could spark a backlash of their own. Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://hims.com/bulwarktakes to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you. Watch Deadline: White House on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house Read more about Protect Democracy: https://protectdemocracy.org/how-you-can-protect-democracy/

MAGA pollster Rich Baris joins Tim Miller to explain why Republicans may be underestimating just how competitive the 2026 Senate map could become. Baris says that Michigan and Georgia are effectively locks for Democrats Abdul El-Sayed and Jon Ossoff. He also sees Democratic opportunities in states Republicans have long considered safe—including Kansas, Nebraska, Montana, Texas, and Ohio. Tim and Rich also talk about why Republican messaging about “socialism” is missing the point. Voters are far more worried about the cost of living, paying their bills, and affording everyday life than they are about scary ideological labels. Rich says it's clear that Trump is betraying the coalition that put him back in the White House. The war, affordability, immigration, and social-media trolling are all alienating voters who once found his approach entertaining and effective. For a limited time, Tempo is offering our listeners 60% off your first box! Go to https://TempoMeals.com/BulwarkTakes

Sam Stein and former CIA officer Marc Polymeropoulos give their takes on Russia’s attempted attacks in Germany, the growing threat of Russian hybrid warfare across Europe, and why Germany’s muted response could invite even more aggression. They also dig into the extraordinary contradiction at the heart of U.S. policy: American intelligence is helping Ukraine fight Russia while the Trump administration cozies up to Putin and welcomes Russia back onto the world stage. Plus, Sam and Marc take a closer look at the Trump administration’s strange new Venezuela oil deal, the questions it raises about American power and influence, and the increasingly uncomfortable gap between the GOP’s rhetoric about socialism and what the administration is actually doing. For a limited time, Tempo is offering our listeners 60% off your first box! Go to https://TempoMeals.com/BulwarkTakes There’s big news from The Bulwark: Marc and investigative journalist Michael Weiss are launching a brand-new podcast, Reporter and the Spy. The show will explore the fascinating intersection of journalism and espionage, drawing on their firsthand experience reporting from and operating in the world’s most dangerous places. Subscribe to The Bulwark so you don’t miss Reporter and the Spy when it launches this fall. If you value independent reporting, sharp analysis, and people who actually know what they’re talking about, become a subscriber today.

The USS Abraham Lincoln finally returns to port after nearly 300 days at sea—and the visible wear and tear is a stark reminder of the strain being placed on the U.S. military. Ben Parker and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) discuss the Navy’s mounting readiness challenges, the Pentagon’s purge of senior Army leaders, and the departure of Army Secretary Dan Driscoll. They also break down what leaked Pentagon orders reveal about commanders’ concerns over the sustainability of ongoing operations in Iran and why the warnings coming from inside the military deserve attention. Plus: Trump’s potential Navy secretary pick, and the Pentagon’s bizarre new plan to fix defense acquisition with a “Shark Tank”-style competition. Read Mark Hertling’s reporting and analysis: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/leaks-from-hegseth-orders-book-warning-risk-iran-war-hormuz-military-commanders-munitions For a limited time, Tempo is offering our listeners 60% off your first box! Go to https://TempoMeals.com/BulwarkTakes

A 20-year-old Haitian college student, Pierre Damas Bel, came to America to study, play soccer, serve in JROTC, and pursue a career in medicine. Instead, he was placed with an ankle monitor, bullied and humiliated by classmates, and made to feel like a criminal despite having committed no crime. Tim Miller and Sam Stein discuss Pierre’s tragic death, the human cost of Trump’s immigration crackdown, and the cruelty being inflicted on Haitian immigrants by Trump and JD Vance. Tim and JVL on JD Vance's book: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/a-dramatic-reading-of-jd-vances-awful For a limited time, Tempo is offering our listeners 60% off your first box! Go to https://TempoMeals.com/BulwarkTakes We’ll be honest—stories about the human cost of this administration’s policies are devastating. But they matter, and paid Bulwark members give us the freedom to cover them anyway—without having to let the algorithm decide which stories deserve attention. Join us and help make that important work possible.

Sam Stein and Lauren Egan give their takes on the behind-the-scenes scramble for campaign staff, the Democrats already courting operatives in early primary states, and why South Carolina is suddenly such a crucial piece of the 2028 puzzle. They also debate just how massive the Democratic field could get and where the next presidential campaigns may set up shop. Make today a good day, and get yourself some Soul gummies. Right now, Soul is offering our audience 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES for 30% off. A quick note: Lauren’s reporting in The Opposition is already being passed around the group chats of campaign staffers, operatives, and political pros trying to figure out what’s coming next. If you want to read the same reporting insiders are reading, sign up and get The Opposition in your inbox: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/2028-democratic-presidential-primary-is-quietly-raging-staffers

Andrew Egger has uncovered one of the strangest congressional candidate stories you’ll hear all year: a woman facing federal fraud charges in Illinois appears to have resurfaced as a different candidate in Florida and denied being the same person. Plus, Dan Driscoll’s stunning resignation exposes the deepening chaos at the Pentagon, Bill Kristol explains why Pete Hegseth may be harder for Trump to get rid of than you think, and the Supreme Court clears the way for Trump’s White House ballroom. Read more from Andrew's piece: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/we-found-her-the-most-absurd-general-election-candidate-te-brown-illinois-florida-congress-fraud-primary-election-putin-whale-orca-polar-bear-russia-ukraine Make today a good day, and get yourself some Soul gummies. Right now, Soul is offering our audience 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES for 30% off.

Tim Miller and a secret guest take on JD Vance’s disastrous trip to Michigan, from his awkward attempt to defend Trump’s deeply unpopular data-center push to an astonishing 9/11 gaffe and an ugly attack on Abdul El-Sayed’s Muslim faith. Tim breaks down the hypocrisy behind Vance’s “populist” persona—and eventually, he blows his lid. If you value having an outlet that can call out this kind of garbage without pulling punches, become a paid Bulwark member. Your support helps us keep making things like this every day.

Donald Trump is posting AI-generated war footage, threatening Canada, spreading dangerous vaccine misinformation, and flooding Truth Social with bizarre content—and Andrew Egger and Catherine Rampell are trying to make sense of it all. From the fake footage showing U.S. strikes on Iran’s Kharg Island to Trump’s bizarre AI videos about Canada, the president’s latest posting binge raises a bigger question: Does Trump know what’s real anymore? And when the president’s information diet is increasingly filled with AI slop designed to flatter his worldview, the consequences go far beyond embarrassing social media posts. Fall Show Tickets: thebulwark.com/events

Sam Stein and Will Sommer went live to cover the Pentagon’s secret army of MAGA influencers, including the government employees allegedly working behind anonymous accounts to attack Pete Hegseth’s critics and target the left. Next, Milo Yiannopoulos has been deported. Watch the video to see Will break down the spectacular feud between Milo and Laura Loomer that helped get him there. Plus, the rise of a neo-Nazi boxing spectacle that drew thousands of spectators in Florida. If you want to understand the increasingly unhinged world of MAGA influencers, join The Bulwark. Will Sommer is one of the few reporters actually spending his days tracking these people, figuring out who they are, what they’re doing, and how their influence keeps spreading. Read more from Will: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/false-flag

Sam Stein and Ben Parker unpack a brutal 24 hours for press freedom: Trump threatening Kristen Welker with the FCC, journalists barred from G20 Treasury access, a leaked Pentagon assessment on Iran drawing threats against reporters, and big tech's silent complicity as DHS bypasses judges to subpoena journalists' data.

Tim Miller talks with author and Tulane professor Nathaniel Rich about climate change, the growing backlash to data centers, their security and privacy risks, and Rich’s new novel, Cloudthief. They also discuss public anxiety about AI and technology, the appeal of scams and get-rich-quick thinking, and how people navigate a future that increasingly feels uncertain. Buy Cloudthief: https://us.macmillan.com/books/9780374619794/cloudthief/

Bill Kristol talks with Jim Swift, reporting from Springfield, Ohio on ICE's crackdown on Haitians who lost protected status, and ACLU attorney Sarah Mehta on third-country deportations, "remigration," and the legal and legislative fights over immigration enforcement.

Trump’s immigration crackdown isn’t just targeting people who entered the country illegally—it’s making it harder for legal immigrants, international students, nurses, and highly skilled workers to come to and stay in the United States. Catherine Rampell and Doug Rand, former senior advisor at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, break down how the administration is shutting down legal pathways, imposing massive new barriers on H-1B workers, and driving international talent toward other countries. Listen to Doug Rand's podcast, 'The Melting Pod' — https://meltingpod.org/ A quick note: This is the kind of conversation we want to do more of at The Bulwark: bringing in people who have actually worked inside the agencies and understand how these policies operate beyond the headlines. There aren’t many outlets putting out substantive conversations with experts like Doug, giving them the time to explain what’s changing and why it matters. If you value having that kind of expertise available—and accessible to everyone—becoming a Bulwark member helps us keep making it possible.

Karoline Leavitt is leaving the White House and George Conway has a few thoughts about her tenure as Donald Trump’s press secretary. Andrew Egger and George give their takes on Leavitt’s talent for lying, deflecting, insulting reporters, and never losing her cool, even when defending the indefensible. They also look at the potential candidates to replace her, including CNN’s Scott Jennings, and ask whether he has what it takes to become Trump’s next professional gaslighter. Watch as George makes the case as to why replacing Leavitt may be harder than it looks. Get your tickets for The Bulwark's Good Fight Tour this October, coming to Charlotte, Columbia, and Atlanta. (https://www.thebulwark.com/events)

Sam Stein and Catherine Rampell give their takes on Trump’s escalating trade war with Canada and why Canada may be looking to China and other countries as more reliable partners. Plus, Trump says the Strait of Hormuz is “open.” So why does the actual data tell a very different story? Watch Catherine break it down and share what the administration doesn’t want you to look at. Read more from Catherine's reporting: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/receipts Tickets for our Good Fight Tour: https://www.thebulwark.com/events

Tim Miller and Joe Perticone give their takes on Stacy Garrity, Pennsylvania’s Trump-endorsed Republican nominee for governor and one of the country’s most committed election deniers. From her role in the January 5, 2021 rally in Harrisburg to her refusal to back away from Trump’s election lies, Garrity has built her political career around MAGA loyalty. Plus, Joe shares some memorable stories from covering Andy Biggs and explains why some of the nicest politicians can be among the worst for the country. Visit https://upwork.com right now and post your job for free. Read more from Joe: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/we-are-not-prepared-for-election-denying-swing-state-governors Check out these previous episodes in Tim's "worst Republicans" series. - Mike Collins: https://youtu.be/dCGutIrGS1M?si=RcHzqPpRipUuncv0- Andy Biggs: https://youtu.be/MlJGh86jzKs?si=Ubc_jcJyh1HRBjsw- Zach Lahn: https://youtu.be/0NFPrcBWHSw?si=J7ASh_2v0tY5kC9x Watch TNL for a discussion of the South Carolina primary: https://youtu.be/bVAzs6YLayo?si=TQqTvBgNULQgmpHU

Sam Stein and Andrew Egger went live to cover Trump order to rename Lake Ontario to "Lake America." They give their takes on the absurdity of it, the cost, and why Trump’s latest map-making stunt is a perfect snapshot of a president who seems increasingly out of ideas and out of touch. Plus, they dig into Trump’s bizarre claims about the Strait of Hormuz, the U.S. missile shortages caused by the Iran war, and why the administration is suddenly asking Russia for favors. Visit https://upwork.com right now and post your job for free. Good Fight Tour tickets: https://www.thebulwark.com/events

Tim Miller joins Katy Tur on MS NOW for his take on Trump’s growing disconnect with voters on the economy and affordability—and why his billionaire bubble may be making that problem worse. Tim breaks down new polling showing a dramatic swing toward Democrat James Talarico in key Texas districts and explains why the Texas Senate race is increasingly within Democrats’ reach. Plus, Trump plans to use his massive super PAC war chest to promote himself ahead of the midterms and that could backfire on Republicans. Visit https://upwork.com right now and post your job for free. Watch The Moment with Katy Tur on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/katy-tur-reports

Go to https://zbiotics.com/bulwarktakes and use BULWARKTAKES at checkout for 15% off any first time orders of ZBiotics probiotics. Tim Miller gives his take on the intentional cruelty and escalating human cost of the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown—from a five-year-old boy detained by ICE on his way to soccer to the father of a U.S. Navy sailor being detained, with the White House defending the decision. Plus, ICE is planning a facility in Louisiana that could hold women and children, developed by the company that operates the state’s notorious Angola prison. Now, immigrants are being sent back to dangerous areas of Haiti and Guatemala, and even deported to countries they aren’t from. In some cases, people sent back to dangerous areas have been killed. Tim breaks down the growing list of horrifying cases and what they reveal about the administration’s immigration policy. 

Go to https://zbiotics.com/bulwarktakes and use BULWARKTAKES at checkout for 15% off any first time orders of ZBiotics probiotics. Ben Parker and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) give their takes on Trump’s latest claims that the U.S. has “really dominated” Iran, the Pentagon’s purge of senior military leaders, and reports that a top Army official was pushed out after opening an investigation into the bizarre Kid Rock helicopter flyby. Plus, they discuss reports that the Navy could rename an aircraft carrier planned to honor Doris Miller, the Black sailor and Medal of Honor recipient who became a hero at Pearl Harbor—and name it after Trump instead. Read more from Mark: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/the-pentagons-purge-at-stars-and-stripes-hegseth-firing-military-newspaper-aircraft-carrier-iran-war

Stanley Druckenmiller just delivered a brutal public rebuke of his former protégé, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Catherine Rampell is joined by Bob Elliott, co-founder and chief investment officer at Unlimited, for his take on what’s behind Druckenmiller’s criticism and why Bessent’s bond-market strategy may be making things worse. They also discuss Bessent’s failed attempt to push down long-term interest rates, the erosion of confidence in U.S. economic policymakers, and what Druckenmiller’s intervention says about the growing divide on Trump’s economic team. Go to https://zbiotics.com/bulwarktakes and use BULWARKTAKES at checkout for 15% off any first time orders of ZBiotics probiotics.

CIA Director John Ratcliffe’s surprise trip to Moscow has raised major questions: Is he there to warn Putin, negotiate over Ukraine, or deliver a message about Russia’s escalating covert attacks across Europe? Reporter Michael Weiss and former CIA officer Marc Polymeropoulos break down Ratcliffe’s unexpected visit, the intelligence warnings about possible Russian provocations against NATO, and the growing campaign of sabotage and attacks targeting European infrastructure. Plus, they turn to the U.S.-Canada trade war and the extraordinary strain being placed on one of America’s closest allies. Sleep cooler this summer with Boll & Branch. Get 15% off your first order plus free shipping at BollAndBranch.com/bulwarktakes with code bulwarktakes.

Congressman Jared Huffman joins Joe Perticone for his take on the rise of Christian nationalism and the religious movements reshaping the American right. Huffman, the author of "No Prophets: The Fight to Save Democracy from Christian Nationalism," explains how he believes Christian nationalism has become increasingly powerful and entrenched in American politics, from the events of January 6 to the highest levels of government. They also discuss JD Vance, “just war” theory, the rise of the “Rad Trad” movement, Pete Hegseth’s crusade rhetoric, and the religious factions influencing MAGA. Read more from Joe: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/presspass Sleep cooler this summer with Boll & Branch. Get 15% off your first order plus free shipping at BollAndBranch.com/bulwarktakes with code bulwarktakes.

Andrew Egger and Bill Kristol went live to cover Trump's dumbest idea yet: renaming Lake Ontario to "Lake America." Plus, Andrew and Bill give their takes on the Supreme Court's decision Monday regarding Trump's executive order on mail-in voting and ICE deports the wife of an active-duty Army sergeant. Sleep cooler this summer with Boll & Branch. Get 15% off your first order plus free shipping at https://BollandBranch.com/bulwarktakes with code bulwarktakes.

Katy Tur hosts Sam Stein, Mona Charen, and others for a wide-ranging discussion of Donald Trump’s role in the 2026 midterms, his focus on sporting events and legacy projects, turnover in the White House, Jared Kushner’s meeting with Hakeem Jeffries, and the growing political backlash to AI and data centers. Watch The Moment with Katy Tur on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/katy-tur-reports

Tim Miller breaks down the ugly smears fueling Michigan’s Senate race, why Mike Rogers’ allies have him furious, and how Republicans are scrambling to distract voters from Trump’s struggling economy. This video is sponsored by The New York Times. Watch On the Line with Alicia Menendez on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/on-the-line

Sam Stein is joined by UCLA School of Law's Richard Hasen and Georgetown University Law Center's Steve Vladek to break down the Supreme Court's decision to allow Trump to restrict mail-in voting. This episode is sponsored by The New York Times.

Andrew Egger and Catherine Rampell give their takes on the latest escalation in Donald Trump’s trade war with Canada. As Trump attacks Canada, Prime Minister Mark Carney is looking to deepen economic ties with the European Union, while Ontario Premier Doug Ford fires back with a blunt message of his own to Trump: “Kiss my ass.”  Catherine explains why Trump’s claims about the U.S.-Canada trade deficit don’t add up, how deeply intertwined the American and Canadian auto industries are, and why the trade war could end up hurting American workers and consumers. This episode is sponsored by The New York Times.

Will Sommer and Sam Stein went live to cover the IndyCar race in DC, the Republican operative who thought you was being entrapped by the "deep state," Enes Kanter Freedom being ejected from a WNBA game, and Sean Duffy's war against Harvard in his reality tv show.   This episode is sponsored by The New York Times.

Trump’s trade war with Canada is back and this time, the negotiations have completely fallen apart. Andrew Egger and Catherine Rampell give their takes on Canada’s decision to walk away from trade talks, Trump’s latest tariffs, and why the administration’s escalating fight with one of America’s closest allies could hit U.S. businesses and consumers hard. They also look at the political risks for Republicans in states like Maine and Michigan, Susan Collins’ attempt to distance herself from Trump’s trade policies, and why Republicans keep blaming Joe Biden for economic problems happening on Trump’s watch.

Bill Kristol talks with veteran Michael Wood about six months of the Iran war: strained military readiness, munitions and base vulnerabilities, growing politicization of the officer corps, Hegseth's leadership failures, and what a post-Trump president must do to rebuild U.S. alliances and credibility.

Tim Miller runs through the disturbing record of Arizona gubernatorial candidate Andy Biggs, from his role in the effort to overturn the 2020 election to his extreme positions on abortion, healthcare, the FBI, and more. Watch Tim's video on Zach Lahn, Republican candidate for Iowa governor: https://youtu.be/0NFPrcBWHSw

The Green Party is supposed to be a left-wing alternative to Democrats. So why are Republican-connected candidates showing up on Green Party ballots in competitive races? Andrew Egger and Brendan Hartnett walk through Brendan’s reporting on a series of suspicious Green Party candidates in Michigan, Arizona, and Pennsylvania—including one Michigan candidate who showed up to the party’s nominating convention on Zoom, never turned on his camera, spoke for 33 minutes, and walked away with the nomination. In some of these races, a third-party candidate could siphon off just enough votes to help a Republican win. This video is sponsored by The New York Times. Read more from Brendan: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/did-maga-infiltrate-the-green-party-in-michigan

Catherine Rampell and JVL went live to cover Scott Bessent flailing as he intervenes in the bond market and Catherine's reporting on how Trump's political appointees hijacked the U.S. Census Bureau, numbers that we're supposed to trust. Plus, for more than a decade, Trump promised to pay down the national debt. This week, it grew to $40 trillion. This video is sponsored by The New York Times. Read more from Catherine's newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/donald-trump-maga-war-on-reality-comes-for-the-census-bureau-voting-citizens-fraud-bogus-report

Tim Miller joins Alicia Menendez on MS NOW to take on the growing questions around Natalie Harp’s access to Trump, why Republicans are hiding from their own voters, and the Trump administration’s increasingly shaky economic message. This video is sponsored by The New York Times. Watch Deadline: White House on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house

Taking care of your health just got easier – start here with Zocdoc: https://zocdoc.com/BULWARKTAKES #sponsored Michael Weiss and Marc Polymeropoulos discuss Trump’s “economic D-Day” against Iran, the risks of secondary sanctions and a prolonged blockade, and why Tehran may retaliate rather than simply give in. They also examine the bizarre influence and security concerns surrounding Natalie Harp and the dysfunction inside the White House. Plus, Michael and Marc discuss Ukraine’s evolving role as a military technology powerhouse, America’s intelligence support for Kyiv, and Russia’s growing threat to Europe.

Taking care of your health just got easier – start here with Zocdoc: https://zocdoc.com/BULWARKTAKES #sponsored Chris Cillizza and JVL use Hulk Hogan and the strange world of professional wrestling to explain Donald Trump’s political dominance, why conventional political skills don’t seem to matter anymore, and why Trumpism may survive long after Trump himself is gone. Check out Chris Cillizza on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/chriscillizza ...and subscribe to his Substack, "So What": https://chriscillizza.substack.com/

Taking care of your health just got easier – start here with Zocdoc: https://zocdoc.com/BULWARKTAKES #sponsored Will Saletan tracks House Republicans—Mike Johnson, Gabe Evans, Jason Smith—flailing to defend Trump's Iran war and rising gas prices, catching them in contradictions, dubious legal justifications, and outright lies about the economy ahead of the midterms.

Note (August 27, 2026, 3:30 p.m. EDT): FirmTech has requested that we mention that “FirmTech is a health-technology company developing smart wearables that provide objective, personal, and actionable data concerning sexual function, vascular wellness, and broader health,” and that FirmTech’s “patented technology is designed to objectively measure and monitor erectile function.” Zach Lahn is the Republican candidate for governor of Iowa with a very unusual résumé and some very unconventional positions. Tim Miller and Brendan Hartnett dig into Lahn’s ties to Kansas and the Koch network, his investment in FirmTech and its award-winning “sex tech” device that Lahn insists is not a sex toy, and questions about whether he’s really an Iowan. They also examine Lahn’s opposition to mRNA vaccines, support for a total abortion ban, MAHA politics, his defense of Trump’s tariffs, and the other positions putting him on the far edge of the Republican field. Read Brendan's article: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/zach-lahn-please-stop-calling-the-award-winning-sex-toy-a-sex-toy-firmtech-iowa-governor-campaign Watch Tim’s take on Mike Collins: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/republicans-found-a-way-to-blow-georgia

Andrew Egger and Lauren Egan break down Florida’s Democratic primaries—and what Angie Nixon’s surprise Senate win means for Democrats in a state they’ve struggled to compete in. They discuss Nixon’s uphill battle against Republican Ashley Moody, David Jolly’s path for governor, and the awkward dynamic of having a self-described democratic socialist and a centrist Democrat at the top of the ticket. Plus, Cory Mills loses his primary despite Donald Trump’s endorsement.

Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker went live to cover Trump's newest push to meet North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un and Trump contradicting Jared Kushner on Iran. Plus they walk through what a typical Deputies Committee would look like in the NSC. The Good Fight Tour: https://www.thebulwark.com/events

Tim Miller is back in DC and it's somehow crazier than he left it. With National Guard troops patrolling Dupont Circle, Tim recruits Will Sommer for a scavenger hunt through Trump's Washington: a $500K-to-join MAGA club co-founded by Don Jr., the bar where Rand Paul's son got into it with Rep. Mike Lawler, the strip mall club where Bessent allegedly threatened to punch out Bill Pulte, and a visit to Mitch McConnell's house, where nobody's quite sure who's home. Read more from Will: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/false-flag

Andrew Egger and Ben Parker went live to cover the Republican election deniers in 2020 now running for office, the company that put out a bogus poll on purpose, Trump’s latest threats against an American ally, and the White House response to a question about Natalie Harp. Read Morning Shots: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/morningshotsThe Good Fight Tour: https://www.thebulwark.com/events The day always ends well with Casper. Right now, save up to 30% on mattresses and up to 35% on everything else when you go to https://casper.com.

Tim Miller shares the story of a Venezuelan family — a pregnant mother, father, and their 7-year-old daughter — who have spent weeks detained at the Dilley detention facility in Texas, despite doing everything the Trump administration has asked of immigrants seeking to leave the country. The family followed every legal step: they applied for asylum, never missed an ICE check-in, and when they decided to return to Venezuela, they went through the official self-deportation process. Instead of being sent home, they were arrested and detained. For more on the Texas Immigration Law Council: https://txilc.org/Call Sen. Katie Britt: 202-224-5744 Function provides 160+ lab tests for $1/day and member pricing on advanced imaging. Join at https://functionhealth.com/BULWARKTAKES and use gift code BULWARKTAKES25.

JVL and Andrew Egger give their takes on Donald Trump’s latest chaotic press conference, from his bizarre claims about talking with Kim Jong Un to his demand that South Korea pay up for U.S. protection. They also look at Trump’s latest comments on the Iran war, the state of the USS Abraham Lincoln, and his increasingly strange defense of his White House ballroom. Plus: Trump lashes out at a CNN reporter, calls the press “fake news,” and insists his ballroom will be bulletproof and missile-proof. Read more from JVL: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/thetriad Read more from Andrew: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/morningshots Function provides 160+ lab tests for $1/day and member pricing on advanced imaging. Join at https://functionhealth.com/BULWARKTAKES and use gift code BULWARKTAKES25. #FunctionPartner (edited) Become a Bulwark Youtube Plus Member here - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG4Hp1KbGw4e02N7FpPXDgQ/join

Jonathan Cohn gives his take on the viral “puppy killer” attack against Abdul El-Sayed—and explains how a misleading story about Detroit’s animal control department became a powerful piece of political misinformation. The reality is far different from the headline. El-Sayed inherited an animal control system plagued by neglect and abuse, and the department improved significantly after he took over.  Jonathan breaks down how the Daily Mail, right-wing influencers, Republican candidates and Fox News helped spread the story and why this episode is a warning about how easily misinformation can overwhelm the truth. Function provides 160+ lab tests for $1/day and member pricing on advanced imaging. Join at https://functionhealth.com/BULWARKTAKES and use gift code BULWARKTAKES25. #FunctionPartner Read more from Jonathan: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/debunking-maga-puppy-killer-smear-against-abdul-el-sayed

Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker went live to cover Trump threatening to bomb Oman, an ally, as a deal to end the war in Iran remains elusive. Plus, Trump praised North Korea over the weekend and cancelled our military drills with South Korea.  Read more from Mark: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/canceling-military-exercises-hurts-us-south-korea-ulchi-freedom-trump-hegseth-iran Read Morning Shots: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/trump-won-on-tariffs-lol-trade-prices-manufacturing-economy Function provides 160+ lab tests for $1/day and member pricing on advanced imaging. Join at https://functionhealth.com/BULWARKTAKES and use gift code BULWARKTAKES25. #FunctionPartner

Will Saletan takes on Kristen Welker’s Meet the Press interview with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, arguing that Blanche’s evasions on Justice Department independence, Trump’s influence over prosecutions, January 6 pardons, and a proposed compensation fund expose him as a loyalist ready to do the president’s bidding.

Andrew Egger and Catherine Rampell discuss Sen. Bill Cassidy’s criticism of vaccine policy after his vote to confirm RFK Jr., questions surrounding Mitch McConnell’s prolonged absence, growing support for price controls in the GOP, the political fallout from Trump’s tariffs, and the Navy’s potential multibillion-dollar warship redesign to suit the president’s aesthetic preferences.

Will Saletan gives his take on how Republicans accused of serious misconduct have learned to survive scandal. All they have do is follow Donald Trump’s example: never resign, deny everything, attack the accusers, call the investigation “political,” and invoke Trump’s own history as proof that they can stay in the fight. From Duncan Hunter and Matt Gaetz to George Santos, Cory Mills and Max Miller, Will walks through how Trump has become the model for Republican politicians facing allegations, investigations and convictions — with endorsements, pardons and political support often waiting on the other side. Read more from Will: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/how-to-survive-a-republican-scandal-imitate-trump

Tim Miller joins Alicia Menendez to discuss widespread calls for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to resign, Trump’s continued support for him, Democrats’ affordability message, and efforts to recruit stronger young candidates for down-ballot races nationwide. Watch One the Line with Alicia Menendez on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/on-the-line

Ben Parker and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) give their takes on the growing crisis aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, where sailors have endured months at sea with poor food and living conditions, disrupted communications, and little clarity about when they will finally come home. Now, there's been several reports that sailors have considered or attempted jumping overboard. And yet, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called the situation “completely misrepresented.” Go to https://thebulwark.com/events for more info on the upcoming Fall tour.

Catherine Rampell and JVL discuss the Trump administration’s latest corruption controversies, including paid early access to Truth Social posts, the destruction of a shell-company ownership database, executive power, and the White House ballroom. Read more from Catherine: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/trumps-gift-to-the-money-launderers-database-treasury

Brandon Herrera is running for Congress in Texas and we’ve discovered a very strange side of his public persona. Sam Stein, Tim Miller, and Will Sommer dig into Herrera’s podcast, where he discusses “Lock & Load,” a supplement he says helps men with...something. The trio goes down the bizarre rabbit hole of male-enhancement supplements, the nine-pills-a-day regimen, and the strange world surrounding these products. Plus: Sean Duffy’s son-in-law is running for Congress, a MAGA podcast fight turns physical, and Candace Owens is preparing for a bizarre $300,000 debate. Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://hims.com/bulwarktakes to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you. Read more from Will: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/the-charlie-kirk-murder-business-crass-spectacle-candace-owens-andrew-wilson-debate

Andrew Egger and Sonny Bunch take on Trump’s latest attempt to get his name back on the Kennedy Center, his refusal to let go of fights he’s already lost, and what his obsession with credit, legacy, and scapegoats says about a president who increasingly seems stuck doing the same thing over and over and over and over and over and over and over... Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://hims.com/bulwarktakes to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you.

Tim Miller takes on Georgia Senate candidate Mike Collins, from his support for taxpayer-funded payouts to January 6 rioters to his ties to white nationalists, racist social media posts, election conspiracies, and bizarre campaign stunts. And when Collins is confronted with questions about the extremists in his orbit, he literally runs away. Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://hims.com/bulwarktakes to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you.

Sam Stein and Will Sommer look back at the wildest moments from Mike Lindell’s career after the Trump-backed election denier lost the Republican primary for Minnesota governor. From refusing to accept election results and offering a $5 million challenge, to arguing with a kid at the Democratic National Convention, getting served legal papers onstage, and blaming the CIA, Lindell has produced no shortage of memorable moments. Upgrade your everyday. Download the Quince app for app-exclusive offers, or go to https://Quince.com/BULWARKTAKES. Get free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada and the UK, too.

Ben Parker and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) discuss an alleged Russian explosive drone at a German airport and the potential implications for NATO, President Trump’s use of a decoy Air Force One amid an Iranian threat, and George W. Bush’s secret 2003 Thanksgiving trip to Iraq. They also answer viewer questions about drone warfare, munitions production, and rebuilding the military after the Trump administration. Upgrade your everyday. Download the Quince app for app-exclusive offers, or go to https://Quince.com/BULWARKTAKES. Get free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada and the UK, too.

Donald Trump was secretly smuggled out of Turkey last month after U.S. intelligence reportedly warned of a possible Iranian assassination plot, but the journalists and White House staff traveling on Air Force One were left in the dark. Michael Weiss and former CIA officer Marc Polymeropoulos give their takes on the extraordinary Secret Service operation, the threat from Iran, and the explosive legal question at the center of the story: did the administration have a duty to warn the people who remained on the plane? They also examine why Trump has stayed silent about the incident, how this was kept secret for more than a month, and what this reveals about the growing threats facing the U.S. and its allies. This episode is sponsored by The New York Times.

Join Andrew Egger and Sam Stein (filling in for Bill) as they cover the week's biggest stories. This episode is sponsored by The New York Times.

Donald Trump’s attacks on Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed may be doing the exact opposite of what he intends. Tim Miller gives his take on Trump repeating the same failed strategy Republicans used against him in 2015 and 2016, attacking an outsider in ways that ultimately give them more attention and support. Tim also weighs in on AOC’s comments about “Woke 1.0,” arguing that Democrats need to be more willing to acknowledge where the movement went too far and how that overreach hurt the party politically. Watch The Moment with Katy Tur on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/katy-tur-reports This episode is sponsored by The New York Times.

Andrew Egger and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) give their takes on Iran’s sweeping new demands, Trump’s response, and why the prospects for a diplomatic deal are fading. They discuss Trump’s shrinking military options, depleted U.S. weapons supplies, and the ongoing crisis in the Strait of Hormuz that's left merchant crews trapped at sea for months. Read more from Mark: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/precision-has-a-price-mlrs-prsm-thaad-patriot-missiles-rockets-iran-war

Will Saletan gives his take on Trump’s new NIH director, Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, becoming a loyalist defender of the Trump administration’s most controversial and absurd health claims. Bhattacharya repeatedly blames Anthony Fauci for COVID-era school closures, declining vaccine confidence and other public-health failures, even when the record doesn’t support those claims. He also refuses to clearly say that vaccines do not cause autism and dodges questions about anti-vaccine misinformation and the CDC shooting. What happens to science when the people running America’s health agencies become more focused on defending Trump and RFK Jr. than following the evidence?

Will Sommer and Sam Stein went live to cover the right's freakout over AOC deciding to freeze her eggs, Max Miller refusing to drop out of his re-election bid, Sen. Mike Lee fuming at Coca-Cola, and Trump mocking Joe Biden after it was announced that his cancer had spread. Make today a good day, and get yourself some Soul gummies. Right now, Soul is offering 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES.

Bill Kristol welcomes recently retired Col. Bree Fram to discuss Hegseth's leadership and the damage he's inflicting on the United States Military, as well as her own personal experience being forced out of the military after over 20 years of service.

Tim Miller shares highlights from his MS NOW appearance with John Heilemann and Jessica Taylor—Trump's political struggles, a scorching anti-war ad targeting Mike Rogers, Bill Cassidy's confirmation vote, and a state-by-state look at the Senate map, from Georgia to Texas to Kansas.

Tim Miller sits down with Isaac Saul, founder of Tangle, to discuss Donald Trump’s plans to build a border wall through and around Big Bend National Park in West Texas. Saul explains why local residents, business owners, sheriffs, and even some Trump-supporting officials are pushing back against the project. Tim and Isaac discuss the environmental damage from construction, the enormous $19.4 billion cost for the new border barriers, and the surprising possibility that new roads and infrastructure could actually make it easier for migrants to navigate the area. Read more from Isaac’s work at Tangle: https://www.readtangle.com/author/isaac-saul/

Andy Ogles is officially not returning to Congress after losing his Tennessee Republican primary. Brendan Hartnett and Lauren Egan give their takes on Ogles’ stunning defeat and why Trump’s endorsement wasn’t enough to save him. We break down Ogles’ history of disgusting, racist and homophobic comments, his controversial $25,000 GoFundMe for a memorial garden that never happened, and how Tennessee’s redistricting helped reshape the race. Plus, Brendan and Lauren talk about what Ogles’ defeat means for Democrats hoping to flip the newly redrawn district and whether Trump’s endorsement is still the force it once was in Republican primaries. This episode is sponsored by The New York Times.

Catherine Rampell and Sam Stein went live to cover the terrible jobs report this month, the White House's attempt to spin the economy as booming, the bill in the Senate that could give Trump more tariff power, and a federal appeals court blocking construction on Trump's ballroom. This episode is sponsored by The New York Times. Read more from Catherine's newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/senate-voting-to-give-trump-a-tariff

Tucker Carlson has a new message for the Republican Party—and it sounds an awful lot like the opening pitch of a presidential campaign. JVL, Andrew Egger and Will Sommer give their takes on Tucker's sweeping "10-point" vision for America, why he's increasingly distancing himself from Donald Trump, and whether he's laying the groundwork for a 2028 White House run. Plus, we break down Tucker's appeal to disaffected MAGA voters, the growing rift inside Trump's coalition over foreign policy and corruption, and why JD Vance, Donald Trump Jr., and the rest of the Republican field should be paying attention. Read more from Will's newsletter: Tucker 2028

Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR) joins Catherine Rampell to discuss his years-long investigation into Jeffrey Epstein's finances and why he believes major Wall Street banks helped enable Epstein's sex trafficking operation by failing to report suspicious transactions. Wyden explains why he says top bank executives should be held accountable, responds to questions about the 60 Minutes interview that never aired, and lays out what Congress could do if Democrats retake the Senate. Wyden also breaks down his opposition to the bipartisan Russia sanctions bill, arguing that it would hand Trump sweeping new tariff powers that could drive up costs for American consumers.

Taking care of your health just got easier – start here with Zocdoc: https://zocdoc.com/BULWARKTAKES #sponsored Tim Miller, Sam Stein, and Will Sommer take on Laura Loomer’s latest cabinet ambitions, MTG’s over-the-top Vegas wedding, Sean Duffy’s disappearing taxpayer-backed road trip, the bizarre MAHA diet taking hold in Trump’s orbit, Steven Crowder’s defense of fascism, and one congressional candidate’s unbelievable beach brawl. Become a Bulwark Youtube Plus Member here - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG4Hp1KbGw4e02N7FpPXDgQ/join

Taking care of your health just got easier – start here with Zocdoc: https://zocdoc.com/BULWARKTAKES #sponsored Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Andrew Egger (filling in for Ben Parker) went live to cover reports that the U.S. missile supplies are dwindling, the Russian missile attack on Ukraine, the cyberattacks across several U.S. states, and Oman's role in a potential deal with Iran.